The Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) landscape in Ghana is characterized by a large number of projects, initiatives and programmes which are mostly working in isolation from each other. Thus Ghana is not maximizing its efforts to use ICTs as a tool for sustainable development and growth because of this disjointed approach.

In order to reverse this trend a Consultative Group met at Akosombo to brainstorm on the formation of an Information and Knowledge Sharing Network, which can act as a conduit for bringing all these projects, initiatives and programmes together.

The Consultative Group was drawn from core projects of the International Institute for Communicaton and Development (IICD) in Ghana, Not-for-profit organizations, government, business and academia.

The mandate of the group was to propose a workable framework for the Network which is targeted at stakeholders interested in promoting Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) for Development. More particularly in promoting ICTs as a tool for Ghana’s development.

The group agreed on the following:

VISION

to have “A Network of Information and Knowledge Sharing that puts ICTs resources within the reach of all.”

VALUES

to work in a spirit of “Sharing, Co-operation, Collaboration, Acknowledging Commitment and Rewarding Quality.”

MISSION

to provide Information and Knowledge that will facilitate capacity building for ICTs products and services to create, identify, synthesize and disseminate Information and Knowledge on ICTs for Development; and to promote the use of ICTs throughout the country.

The Consultative Group also agreed that the main goals of the Network should include but not limited to:

An Online/Offline Networking Space.

Creating a Knowledge and Information Centre

Strengthening Strategic Alliances.

Encouraging and Rewarding Excellence.

Being the Conduit for Capacity Building and Skills Development and Upgrading

The main outcome of the Retreat was the development of a framework for a business plan on activities that can be sustained and maintained over several years, mainly by network participants / members.

Participants at the Retreat were Hon. John Achuliwor- Deputy Minister of Communication & Technology, Agnes Adjabeng- EPA, Eddie Addo-Dankwa- Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Joel Sam-Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Myra Togobo- Global Teenager Project, Johnnie Akakpo- CITRED, Philip Boateng-Mensah-GAPVOD, Mark Davies- Busyinternet, Yoku Korsah- KPMG, Comfort Ocran- WABNET, William Sam- Genisys, Kwami Ahiabenu II, AITEC Ghana, Korantema Adi-Dako- KAD Communications Ltd,Nana Essilfie-Conduah- NESFICOMMS and Gifty Adika- University of Ghana.

The Network is open to all who share in its vision, mission, values and goals and who at the same time are willing to take up the responsibilities that come with membership.

For fur ther information please send an e-mail to enquires@iconnectghana.org