Ghana Prepares to Tackle Digital Falsehoods with Anti-Misinformation Bill While Embracing Global Entrepreneurship
Accra, Ghana – In a move aimed at safeguarding public trust and national security while fostering innovation and economic growth, Ghana is set to introduce the Anti-Misinformation and Disinformation Bill. Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, addressed public concerns regarding the bill, emphasizing its focus on combating coordinated digital falsehoods without stifling freedom of expression. This legislative effort coincides with Ghana’s preparations to host the 2025 Global Entrepreneurship Festival, showcasing the nation’s commitment to becoming a hub for innovation and investment in Africa.
The Anti-Misinformation and Disinformation Bill, currently undergoing final internal reviews, is designed to address the escalating threat posed by deliberate online misinformation campaigns, particularly on social media platforms. Mr. George stressed that the legislation is not intended to suppress legitimate dissent or criticism but rather to establish a clear legal framework for tackling harmful digital content that intentionally distorts the truth and jeopardizes public safety, erodes trust in institutions, and undermines national unity. The bill will empower relevant agencies to take action against individuals or groups who utilize digital tools to mislead the public while promoting responsible online behavior and enhancing digital literacy among citizens.
The proposed legislation seeks to strike a delicate balance between protecting freedom of expression and safeguarding the digital space from malicious actors. Mr. George underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring that citizens can freely express their views while simultaneously protecting the public from the dangers of coordinated misinformation campaigns. This approach reflects the administration’s broader vision of fostering a digitally inclusive and forward-thinking society where both innovation and accountability can flourish. The bill is slated to be submitted to Cabinet and subsequently presented to Parliament in the next legislative session, with the goal of passing it into law by December 2025.
In parallel with its efforts to combat online misinformation, Ghana is preparing to host the 2025 Global Entrepreneurship Festival in November. This prestigious event is expected to attract over 10,000 participants from more than 70 countries, including investors, venture capitalists, entrepreneurs, and technology leaders. The festival will provide a platform for Ghanaian startups to showcase their innovative ideas and connect with potential investors and partners, creating opportunities for networking, collaboration, and funding. Hosting this global event underscores Ghana’s ambition to position itself as a leading destination for innovation and investment on the African continent.
The convergence of these two initiatives – the Anti-Misinformation and Disinformation Bill and the hosting of the Global Entrepreneurship Festival – highlights Ghana’s multifaceted approach to building a secure, open, and digitally empowered society. By addressing the challenges of online misinformation while simultaneously fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, the government aims to create an environment where both freedom of expression and technological innovation can thrive. The festival is expected to generate significant economic benefits for Ghana, boosting tourism, creating jobs, and attracting foreign investment.
Mr. George’s announcements reaffirm the government’s commitment to fostering a balanced and dynamic digital landscape. The Anti-Misinformation and Disinformation Bill represents a proactive measure to protect the integrity of the online space, while the Global Entrepreneurship Festival signals Ghana’s ambition to become a global player in the technology and innovation arena. These initiatives underscore the government’s belief in the power of technology to drive economic growth and social progress while recognizing the importance of responsible digital citizenship and the need to address the challenges posed by the spread of misinformation in the digital age. By hosting this prestigious event, Ghana aims to showcase its burgeoning tech sector and attract investment from around the globe, further solidifying its position as a leading hub for innovation in Africa.
