ICT Development and Youth Empowerment

GIFEC Engages Obuasi Municipal Assembly on ICT Development and Youth Empowerment

March 25, 2026 GIFEC Communications News

The Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications and the Global System for Mobile Communications Association(GSMA) on March 24, 2026, organized a capacity-building training at the Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT. The initiative was part of sustained efforts to tackle the mobile gender gap recognized as a major barrier to inclusive growth and women’s participation in the digital economy. It also equipped stakeholders with the skills and insights required to transition from policy discussions to clear, evidence-driven action..

In his opening remarks, the Administrator of GIFEC, Mr. Tanko Rashid-Computer, underscored the urgency of the issue, describing it as a national priority that demands practical and immediate implementation. He emphasized the need to move beyond strategy to measurable impact. Experts from GSMA, including Pippa McDougall, Emma Catalfamo, and Adem Esther, highlighted persistent barriers such as affordability, safety and security concerns, limited digital skills, and the lack of relevant content. They also shared global best practices and insights on how governments and institutions can accelerate women’s digital inclusion.

Participants collaboratively developed a practical action plan tailored to Ghana’s context, with a focus on expanding inclusive access, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring measurable, sustainable outcomes. The sessions ended with participants being awarded certificates of participation. The programme, jointly organized by Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications and GSMA, was spearheaded by GIFEC’s Sustainability, Diversity & Accessibility Unit, under the leadership of Dr. Abdulai Bonchel Duut, Deputy Director in charge of Human Resources and Administration.

The overarching message was clear: bridging the mobile gender gap is achievable, but it will require coordinated action, sustained commitment, and a strong focus on results

Key Discussion Points

  • Mobile Gender Gap Priority :Training addressed barriers to women’s participation in the digital economy.
  • Practical Action Emphasis: — GIFEC Administrator stressed moving from policy to measurable impact.
  • Global Best Practices: GSMA experts highlighted challenges like affordability, safety, limited skills, and lack of relevant content.
  • Tailored Action Plan: Participants developed strategies for inclusive access, stronger partnerships, and sustainable outcomes in Ghana.
  • Commitment to Results: Programme reinforced the need for coordinated action and sustained focus to bridge the mobile gender gap.