Samuel George Calls for African Unity to Protect Data from Global Tech Exploitation, Urges Africa to Shape Policies Based on Cultural and Religious Values Amid Shifting Western Positions

Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has called on African countries to unite in protecting the continent’s digital resources, warning that Africa faces a new form of exploitation through the unchecked use of data generated by its citizens.
Speaking at the 4th African Inter-Parliamentary Conference on Family, Sovereignty and Values in Accra, the Minister argued that data has become one of Africa’s most valuable assets in the digital economy, yet multinational technology companies continue to benefit from it without adequate accountability to African governments and citizens.
According to him, while Africa continues to seek justice and reparations for the historical injustices of slavery, it must also confront what he described as the modern-day exploitation of its digital wealth. Samuel George stressed the need for a unified continental approach to data governance, urging African leaders to establish clear frameworks on data ownership, storage and use. He maintained that African nations must retain control over their data and ensure that the benefits derived from it contribute directly to the continent’s development.

Speaking to journalists after his address, the Minister reiterated the importance of digital sovereignty, noting that Africa’s ongoing digital transformation must be accompanied by stronger protections against external exploitation. He further linked data governance to broader discussions on cultural identity and sovereignty, arguing that Africa must safeguard both its resources and its values. The Minister’s remarks come amid growing debate across the continent on data protection, artificial intelligence, digital governance and the influence of global technology companies on emerging economies.

Addressing issues relating to LGBTQ rights, Samuel George said African countries should formulate policies based on their own cultural, religious and societal values. He argued that some Western nations are reassessing aspects of policies adopted over previous decades and urged African leaders to chart an independent course that reflects the aspirations and convictions of their people. According to him, discussions on family values, cultural identity and digital sovereignty are interconnected, and Africa’s future depends on its ability to maintain control over both its resources and its narrative.