THE Government of Japan, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has launched three major initiatives aimed at strengthening peacebuilding, advancing artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, and accelerating digital transformation in Ghana’s public sector.
The projects are “Towards achieving Humanitarian-Development-Peace (HDP) Nexus in Bawku”, “Accelerating Public Sector Digital Transformation through Capacity Building”, and “Harnessing AI to Improve Health Outcomes in Ghana while addressing its Potential Risks Undermining Human Security.”
The Ambassador of Japan to Ghana, Ambassador Hiroshi Yoshimoto, said the initiatives reflect Japan’s commitment to Ghana’s development agenda and a shared vision of inclusive and sustainable growth anchored in human security.
He explained that the first project focuses on strengthening local mediation to promote stability in the conflict-affected area.
He noted that peace and stability remain the foundation for development, adding that Japan will continue to support peacebuilding efforts in collaboration with national stakeholders and UNDP.
He expressed hope that Bawku would also emerge as a symbol of reconciliation and progress.
On the second project, the Ambassador said that although Japan is committed to universal health coverage and technology-driven healthcare delivery, innovation must remain guided by ethical principles and a people-centred approach.
Mr Yoshimoto added that the third project aims to strengthen AI governance and healthcare, and develop a sustainable national ecosystem for digital expertise.
He said Japan remains committed to working with Ghana and partners to co-create solutions that promote peace, innovation, and inclusive development.
The Ambassador said the Government of Japan has provided an initial funding of about $1.5 million to support the implementation of the three initiatives.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, described the support as a demonstration of the strong and enduring relationship between Ghana and Japan.
He said the funds will be used to implement community-based programmes annually, adding that Japan continues to play a key role in Ghana’s development efforts.
The Country Representative of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr Fiona Braka, also pledged its support for Ghana’s AI-driven health system under a Japan-backed UNDP-WHO programme to improve health outcomes, disease surveillance, and protect vulnerable groups.
She said the programme will build a resilient digital health ecosystem, strengthen governance, data protection, and early outbreak detection systems.
The Resident Representative of UNDP Ghana, Mr Niloy Banerjee, praised Japan’s support for the three initiatives and noted that it aligns with Ghana’s development priorities and contributes to Sustainable Development Goals 13 of the 17.
He stressed systems transformation, inclusion of vulnerable groups, and strong national collaboration.
He reaffirmed UN solidarity with Ghana and said lessons from the initiatives will shape future UN cooperation frameworks.
BY CLIFF EKUFUL
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