The Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Mr Samuel Nartey George, has officially launched Ghana’s participation in the upcoming Osaka Expo 2025, aimed at fostering collaboration with Japan.
During a press briefing on Friday in Accra, the Minister highlighted the importance of this partnership, emphasising the potential for Ghana’s ICT sector to shine on a global platform.
He noted, “The Expo, themed Designing the Future Societies of Our Lives,’ will run from April 13 to October 13, 2025, in Kansai, Japan.”
“Our participation will highlight innovative products and services by Ghanaian private sector organisations, from fintech and e-governance to digital health and smart solutions. These advancements are driving Ghana’s digital transformation,” Mr George added.
He emphasised the importance of collaborating with local ICT firms, stating that their participation will help attract investment and create job opportunities.
“The Ministry is proud to collaborate with private sector ICT organisations in Ghana, a cornerstone of our strategy to foster growth and innovation. By partnering with dynamic ICT firms in the country, we aim to open doors for meaningful partnerships, attract investment, and build bridges with Japanese businesses,” the Minister stated.
Mr George outlined plans for a robust participation strategy at the Expo, which includes hosting an exhibition of cutting-edge projects and services, an ICT Business Forum for industry leaders, and B2B sessions to connect Ghanaian institutions with their Japanese counterparts.
He mentioned that this initiative will culminate in the Ghana Day celebration on September 11, 2025, where there will be a celebration of the nation’s digital progress.
“I will be present in Osaka, leading a delegation from Ghana with the Ministry and private sector partners,” the Minister added.
Looking beyond the Expo, Mr George revealed plans to deepen ties with Japan, including a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and technology transfer.
He expressed excitement about presenting Ghana’s advancements to potential Japanese partners and called on the media to amplify the message, rallying Ghanaians and the global community to join in this exciting journey.
Speaking on behalf of the Japanese Ambassador, Deputy Chargé d’Affaires Mr Naoki Mitori, emphasised the historical ties between Japan and Ghana, dating back to when Ghana was known as the Gold Coast, and highlighted the importance of strengthening these bonds further.
He pointed to two major upcoming events, including the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) in August, where Ghana is expected to send a high-level delegation, and the ongoing Osaka-Kansai World Expo.
“As of the end of May, a total of 5 million people have already visited the World Expo in Kansai,” he added.
He introduced the Expo’s mascot, “Myaku Myaku,” which means steadily housing, symbolizing the event’s theme and the continuity of knowledge and culture.
Mr Mitori noted the growing interest in Ghana within Japan, attributing it to historical figures like Dr Nobuji and the popularity of Ghanaian cocoa and chocolate.
He expressed appreciation for the partnership and reinforced the commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing collaboration in various sectors.
