Companies must keep up with technological advances

Accra, March 11, GNA - Ghana would be able to maintain its ranking position in Information Communication Technology (ICT) on the Continent if companies in the sector were able to keep up with current technological advances.

The Minister of Communication, Mr Albert Kan-Dapaah said the ability of companies in the Sector to keep abreast with the fast changing technology in the Sector would be crucial for sustainable future development. A recent survey on ICT development in Africa ranked Ghana as the first in West Africa and seventh overall on the Continent. The Minister was speaking during a visit to the ICT village at the ongoing 6th Industry and Technology Exhibition (INDUTECH 2005) in Accra on Friday.

The Exhibition is on the theme: "Transforming Ghana's Industrial Sector Through ICT."

The Minister said Ghana's current enviable position was a tremendous improvement on the previous years and was the result of consistent firm decision by Government to leave ICT development to the private sector. Mr Kan-Dapaah reiterated Government's determination to pursue prudent policies that would ensure that the country took its right position in the information society.

He said when properly focused Ghana could establish itself as the ICT hub in the West Africa Sub-Region. Mr Kan-Dapaah, therefore, stressed the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders in the implementation of the country's ICT policy to enhance growth in the Sector.

He called for a special partnership with the Media in ensuring the success of ICT deployment.

Mr Prince Kofi Kludjeson, President of Association of Ghana Industries, said the Association was focusing on linking up with the over 250 million people in the Sub-Region through ICT to enhance trade.