The Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, James Gyakye Quayson , represented Ghana at the Responsible Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain (REAIM) 2026 Summit in A Coruña, Spain, from February 4 to 5, 2026.
The summit brought together ministers, senior officials, policy experts, and global stakeholders to deliberate on the ethical governance and deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in military and security contexts.
In his remarks, the Deputy Minister highlighted Ghana’s recognition of AI’s growing importance not only for economic growth and innovation but also for strengthening military effectiveness, operational decision‑making, and the protection of civilians and personnel. While acknowledging AI’s potential to bolster peace and security, Ghana underscored the imperative of responsible development, meaningful human oversight, and strict adherence to international humanitarian and human rights law.
Ghana’s participation in the REAIM summit aligns with broader national efforts to strategically embrace AI across government, public services, and security sectors. The Government of Ghana is actively developing a National Artificial Intelligence Strategy aimed at harnessing AI’s potential across key sectors including defence, agriculture, healthcare, logistics, and smart governance. The strategy is anchored in ethical AI deployment, data governance, capacity development, and infrastructure expansion.
In the defence domain specifically, recent demonstrations and training exercises have spotlighted AI’s operational utility. For example, a counter‑drone system using AI and machine learning was showcased to the Ghana Armed Forces, enhancing perimeter security and automated threat response capabilities.
The AI‑based framework allowed adaptive detection and neutralisation of drone threats, a capability increasingly crucial for modern military operations. Additionally, Ghana has been upskilling military personnel in AI tools, including generative AI for administrative efficiency, reflecting an institutional commitment to integrating emerging technologies into defence processes.
The summit also provided a platform for Ghana to lend its voice to global discussions on the responsible use of AI in security and international peace efforts. In line with the objectives of the REAIM process, Ghana endorsed the REAIM 2026 Pathways to Action document, reiterating its commitment to constructive engagement, experience‑sharing, and collaboration with Member States and relevant stakeholders. The document outlines actionable steps to ensure AI technologies are developed and deployed in ways that uphold ethical principles and international norms.
Ghana’s newfound emphasis on AI reflects a broader trajectory of digital transformation. Government initiatives such as the One Million Coders Program and strategic consultations for ethical AI governance underscore a deliberate effort to equip citizens , particularly youth, with the skills to thrive in an AI‑enabled future. These efforts are complemented by partnerships with international organisations to strengthen national capacity for digital innovation.
The Government of Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to contributing to global efforts aimed at ensuring that emerging technologies uphold human dignity, promote peace, and strengthen international security. By engaging in forums like REAIM and developing comprehensive AI strategies, Ghana seeks to position itself not only as a responsible adopter of technology but also as a thought leader in ethical AI governance on the African continent.
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