Ghana has obtained a loan of $ 115 million from the World Bank to accelerate the implementation of the eTransform Ghana project. Many actions are planned, including the extension of the telecom network, the computerization of administrations. The goal is to improve the digital response to the Covid-19.
The World Bank Board of Directors announced on June 30, 2020, the approval of additional funding of $ 115 million from the International Development Association (IDA) to support digital transformation in Ghana. The loan, which has a maturity of 30 years, with five years of grace, will be used for the ongoing eTransform Ghana project.
According to the World Bank, the funding will help improve the efficiency and coverage of government service delivery. Activities to be intensified include the digitization of archives and other public documents; increasing Internet bandwidth for district health centers and hospitals and other government services in 254 districts.
The project will also provide computer labs and networks to improve distance learning in two new universities and 200 high schools located in areas that do not currently have these facilities. There are plans to automate the justice system and develop an integrated information management system for the Office of the Attorney General and the Department of Justice to facilitate remote work.
Emphasis will also be placed on intensifying electronic procurement in all government ministries, departments and agencies to ensure business continuity and reduce the need for physical travel.
According to Michel Rogy, the head of digital development practices for Africa and the Middle East at the World Bank, these projects will help provide a digital response to Covid-19, which restricts the effective functioning of the State and the society.