In a powerful statement, Minister Samuel Nartey George advocates for digital equality at the vibrant Tortroyeye Festival in Whuti. The event, a cultural celebration with a twist, aimed to bridge the gap between tradition and technology, leaving no one behind in the digital revolution.
Minister George, responsible for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, joined the Whuti community in the Volta Region for this year's festival, themed 'Our Future: Bridging the Digital Divide.' The gathering brought together Ghanaians from all walks of life, both locally and abroad, to showcase their cultural heritage while advocating for digital inclusion and community empowerment.
In his keynote speech, Minister George conveyed greetings from President John Dramani Mahama and praised Togbi Nyaho Tamakloe VI, the Miafiaga of Anlo and Paramount Chief, for choosing a theme that seamlessly merges culture and technology. But here's where it gets controversial—he boldly asserted that the festival's theme couldn't be more pertinent, as technology's impact on our daily lives is undeniable, yet access to digital resources remains a privilege for many.
Minister George emphasized the government's dedication to digital inclusion, highlighting initiatives like the Rural Telephony Project, Digital Ghana Agenda, and programs targeting girls and young coders. These efforts aim to expand broadband access, enhance digital skills, and unlock opportunities for Ghana's youth. And this is the part most people miss—the Minister's announcement that Whuti will be a training hub for the One Million Coders Programme, ensuring the community's youth are equipped for the digital future.
The Minister shed light on the global digital divide, revealing that billions worldwide, especially in developing nations, lack internet access. He urged Ghana to prioritize digital inclusion for rural areas, ensuring they're not left in the shadows of the digital age. He passionately argued that culture and technology are allies, not foes, in building a progressive Ghana, where digital bridges connect Whuti to Accra and Ghana to the world.
Samuel Nartey George praised Whuti's vision for establishing a state-of-the-art ICT laboratory, believing it will inspire and empower generations. He committed personal support and secured additional funding from the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) to provide digital equipment for the center.
On a personal note, the Minister acknowledged his wife's roots in Whuti and thanked the community for their hospitality. Togbi Nyaho Tamakloe VI reciprocated the gratitude, commending the Minister's dedication to rural digital transformation. The festival, held at the Whuti E.P. Primary School Park, showcased cultural performances and messages of unity from the diaspora, embodying the spirit of digital inclusion and community resilience.
This festival is more than just a celebration; it's a call to action. Do you agree that festivals like Tortroyeye can effectively advocate for digital inclusion and community development? Share your thoughts below, and let's spark a conversation on innovative ways to bridge the digital divide.
