GIPA boss pushes digital investment to accelerate AI adoption

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Promotion Authority (GIPA), Simon Madjie, has urged investment promotion agencies in emerging economies to strengthen their digital infrastructure to accelerate the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in attracting and facilitating investments.

He said limited access to digital infrastructure and the high cost of AI software licences were constraining agencies, particularly in Africa, from integrating the technology into their operations.

Mr Madjie made the remarks during an executive roundtable at the World Investment Forum in Doha, Qatar, where he highlighted the need for investment promotion agencies to embrace digital tools to remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven global investment environment.

Citing a report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Mr Madjie noted that only 16 per cent of investment promotion agencies in emerging economies had adopted AI.

He said broader adoption of the technology could improve how agencies identify investment opportunities, engage prospective investors and respond to the needs of businesses already operating in their countries.

According to him, AI-enabled systems could help agencies streamline services, improve investor engagement and strengthen their ability to attract and retain investment.

Mr Madjie disclosed that GIPA was already integrating AI into key operational systems, including its investor aftercare services, Investor Grievance Mechanism and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platform.

The authority is also applying technology to its Investment Opportunities Mapping Project, which aims to improve the identification and presentation of investment prospects.

These initiatives are intended to enhance the agency’s ability to provide timely information, support investors and facilitate investment activities.

The discussions formed part of a roundtable on the evolving investment landscape and the role of investment promotion agencies and special economic zones in responding to emerging global trends.

The session brought together representatives from Ghana, including Deputy Head of Mission in Doha Abdul Wahab Ali Wadey and Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Northern Development Authority, Hajia Jamilatu Ibrahim.

Mr Madjie’s remarks underscored the importance of digital readiness in enabling emerging economies to compete for investment and deliver more efficient services to businesses.