Tech analyst warns proposed NITA Bill could stifle innovation in Ghana

Technology analyst and consultant Barnabas Nii Laryea has cautioned that the proposed National Information Technology Authority Bill could hinder innovation and create fear within Ghana’s expanding technology sector.

Speaking on PM Express on Monday, Mr Laryea argued that the draft legislation risks creating obstacles for startups and young innovators instead of fostering a supportive digital environment.

The proposed bill seeks to strengthen NITA as an independent regulator with expanded authority over Ghana’s digital ecosystem. Among its provisions are mandatory licensing for ICT businesses, certification requirements for ICT professionals, regulation of technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, and the introduction of a proposed one percent levy on ICT services.

However, Mr Laryea expressed concern that several sections of the bill are overly broad and unclear. He particularly criticised the requirement that all ICT-related businesses must obtain licences before operating, warning that it could affect ordinary developers, students, and startup founders.

He questioned whether web developers, software creators, or students building digital products would all be required to secure licences before launching their work. According to him, the bill fails to clearly define who qualifies as an ICT professional, creating uncertainty and anxiety within the tech community.

The analyst also raised concerns about the government’s attempt to introduce numerous digital-related bills at the same time, describing the process as overly ambitious and potentially problematic from a public policy perspective.

Mr Laryea warned that some provisions could even criminalise innovation, citing sections that propose penalties, fines, and possible imprisonment for operating without the required licences.

Using the example of a young software developer unintentionally violating the law after launching an application, he stressed that such an approach does not reflect how successful modern innovation ecosystems are developed.