AI must align with human progress - Alban Bagbin

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has called for a balanced approach to Artificial Intelligence (AI), stressing that technological advancements must go hand in hand with human development.

Speaking at the unveiling of Ghana’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy at a symposium in Accra on April 24, 2026, Bagbin emphasised his commitment to ensuring that the deployment of AI is guided by robust legislation.

He described the strategy as more than a technical framework, characterising it as a “social contract” rooted in Ghana’s core values of fairness, inclusiveness, accountability, and justice.

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According to him, the country has consistently risen to critical moments in its history by staying true to these principles.

Alban Bagbin cautioned against allowing technological progress to outpace human development.

“Technology progress must never come at the expense of human progress,” he said.

He stressed that innovation should be inclusive and benefit all segments of society, including rural communities, young people, the elderly, and Persons Living With Disabilities (PWDs).

He outlined a vision of an AI-enabled Ghana where both human and Artificial Intelligence are harnessed to address real-world challenges; ranging from improving agricultural productivity and transforming education to advancing healthcare, enhancing public sector efficiency, and creating employment opportunities for the youth.

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He emphasised the role of Parliament in shaping the future of AI governance, noting that lawmakers stand ready to enact the necessary legal frameworks to ensure accountability, safety, and public trust.

He added that laws must evolve alongside technological innovation to effectively regulate the emerging ecosystem.

Bagbin also called for a multi-stakeholder approach, urging universities, research institutions, the private sector, and civil society to contribute actively.

He noted that academic institutions must promote ethics and critical thinking, while businesses should lead with responsibility and innovation.

Civil society, he added, must remain vigilant in holding institutions accountable.

“No single institution, sector, or generation can carry this responsibility alone,” he said.

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, commended the various stakeholders, including experts, researchers, public servants, and young innovators who contributed to the development of the strategy, expressing confidence that Ghana can build an AI-driven future that reflects its shared values.

VPO/AE

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