Ghana goes transparent 🛜
#207: In the race for innovation, sometimes the most surprising contender emerges victorious.
Hello Venturer,
Imagine a government where every transaction leaves an incorruptible trail, fraud becomes a relic of the past, and citizens experience a new level of trust in their leaders. This isn't science fiction, but the ambitious plan Ghana is pursuing.
This week, Ghana announced plans to become Africa’s first blockchain-powered government. The plan is to implement blockchain technology across government operations and significantly reduce manipulation and fraud in government processes. Currently, Ghana has a score of 43 on the Corruption Perceptions Index with a 0% change since last year. It ranks 70 out of 180 countries. Ghana’s plan would mean a complete overhaul of how its government currently operates.
Still, blockchain is an interesting disruptive technology. Can Ghana successfully execute its blockchain dream and set a precedence for other African countries? Someone once said in the race for innovation, sometimes the most surprising contender emerges victorious. This week, we explore how true this is.
Suotunimi Orufa,
Writer, Ventures Africa.
What’s new?
How does Ghana plan to become Africa’s first blockchain-powered government?
Ghana has recently announced plans to become Africa’s first blockchain-powered government. This was announced at the 14th Commonwealth Regional Conference and Annual General Meeting of Heads of Anti-Corruption Agencies in Africa by the country’s Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia. Read more.
Can investing in Africa’s emerging film industries challenge the status quo?
While giants like Nollywood and South Africa’s film industry dominate the headlines, a quieter revolution is brewing in different parts of Africa. Zambia, a nation whose film scene has largely remained under the radar, recently unveiled an ambitious $100 million investment plan to transform its film industry over 4 years. Read more.
Weekly economic index: Nigeria enacts cybersecurity levy, Naira becomes worst performing currency, and Egypt’s debt increases by $3.5 billion in three months
Here are three big stories from Africa’s business and policy landscape you (probably) didn’t miss but should keep in mind this week
Soft power - To attract, persuade, influence, and shape preferences through culture. Nigeria has effectively done this through entertainment. Our music, films, and content transcend borders, commanding global attention. As master storytellers, we leverage new technologies to amplify our cultural influence. Please read our latest magazine issue to learn more.
Our Weekly Collectibles
Discover John Gardner on the key to self-renewal across life and the art of making rather than finding meaning.
The AMVCA’s impact on African filmmaking is undeniable but there is still so much room to grow. Uncover the AMVCA’s 10-year milestone.
Why does Indian officialdom still treat citizens like subjects? Meet the maharajas of the world’s biggest democracy.
#VANUGGET
