Understanding to establish a digital economic zone in Ghana

The Ports, Customs and Free Zone Foundation in Dubai has announced the signing of a joint memorandum of understanding with the Ghana government, to establish the first innovative digital economic zone in the Ghanaian capital, Accra, in a strategic move that is a pivotal transformation in the path of global expansion in the field of economic innovation and smart technology, noting that the initiative aims to accelerate the transformation of the country into a regional technological force, and attract investments to West Africa.

The memorandum was signed by the President of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Foundation, Sultan Ahmed bin Salim, and the Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations in Ghana, Samuel Nahti George, according to a statement issued yesterday.

According to the memo, a plot of land will be allocated in the interest of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Foundation on an area of ​​25 square kilometers in Accra, to establish the model economic zone, and the Foundation will undertake operations and attract international technology companies with the aim of investment expansion from this center, and the memorandum of understanding includes partnership in establishing the digital infrastructure of this region in addition to real estate development.

Bin Salim affirmed the Foundation’s commitment to support the global trend of the UAE and the participation of Dubai’s leading experience in innovation and economic development.

He said: «This initiative emphasizes our global strategic relations, and strengthens the role of the Foundation as a major contributor to the Dubai economy based on knowledge and innovation.

He added, “Our efforts are focused on launching pioneering projects that enhance sustainable growth, and we invest in human capital and advanced technology, to establish Dubai’s position as a global center for smart technologies and digital transformation.”

Bin Salim praised the trust granted by the Ghana government to the experiences of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Foundation and welcoming the establishment of the region. He said: “This smart economic zone, which combines innovation, technology and logistical services, will enhance commercial growth and enhance industrial and technological infrastructure in Ghana.”

For his part, the Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations in Ghana, Samuel Nahti George, said that this partnership will contribute to strengthening Ghana’s economic position to be a regional center for technological progress in Africa.

He added, “This initiative is in line with Ghana’s vision of digital transformation and sustainable economic growth, and the region will play a pivotal role in attracting international companies and talents, which makes Accra a favorite destination on the international scene.”

The Ports, Customs and Free Zone Foundation will provide smart digital infrastructure in the region that will manage its development and operation in Ghana in a way that supports specialized institutions in Ghana and Africa for growth and development and obtaining investment opportunities and supportive business incubators that meet their local and global expansion.

Teams from both sides specializing in artificial intelligence and investment will manage the region. Cooperation aims to enable local communities, merchants and investors, and to advance the wheel of comprehensive and sustainable economic progress in the African continent.

• The Ports and Customs Foundation will provide smart digital infrastructure in the region.