In a digital jungle where laws lag behind technology, Dzata George (Hon. MP) is rewriting the rules of survival.

African folklore teaches that until the lion tells its story, the hunter will always be the hero. The lion—dzata—is admired for strength and courage, yet feared for its predatory instincts. Loved and despised in equal measure, it remains misunderstood because it rarely speaks for itself. The lesson is timeless: every story is incomplete until all sides are heard.

Today, that wisdom applies to Ghana’s digital future. Samuel Dzata George (Hon), Member of Parliament and Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations (MoCDTI), is determined to write a new chapter—one of reform, resilience, and relevance.

Why it Matters

The MoCDTI oversees agencies that touch every citizen’s daily life in this virtual environment. They include:

• The National Communications Authority
• The Cyber Security Authority
• The Data Protection Commission
• The National Information Technology Agency
• The Postal and Courier Services Regulatory Commission
• The Ghana Domain Name Registry, and others

From your phone calls and e-wallet balance to biometric verification, social media posts, and online shopping, these institutions safeguard the digital ecosystem we rely on. Yet their enabling laws, written years ago, struggle to keep pace with rapid technological change. Reform is not optional—it is urgent. Hence, the proposals for a comprehensive overhaul of the legislative framework of these agencies have since been published for public commentary.

The Case for Reform

Regulators worldwide face two extremes- the Prohibition of new technologies, which stifles innovation, or Unrestrained adoption, with the risk of public harm.

The best path lies in balance—encouraging creativity, while protecting citizens. Excessive regulation can derail progress, but inaction leaves the citizens vulnerable to cyber threats, privacy breaches, and exploitation. Ghana’s current legislation, from the year 1996 when the National Communications Authority was established to 2020 when the Cybersecurity Authority was established, the telecoms, courier, and information technology ecosystem has been overtaken by new realities. The digital world moves faster than the law.

Global Lessons

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has warned that shifting markets, consumer behaviour, data privacy, and emerging technologies demand a rethink of traditional regulation. Regulators must adapt to exponential growth and constant innovation. Ghana cannot afford to lag.

Dzata’s Agenda

Dzata’s reform agenda is not about preying on the weak or policing innovation. It is about:

• Strengthening institutions and clarifying mandates
• Enhancing regulation without stifling innovation
• Safeguarding data sovereignty while protecting individual privacy
• Aligning with international best practices
• Ensuring coherent delivery of digital governance across the public service, and
• Securing the citizens’ presence in the virtual world and understanding of the rules of engagement.

In short, it is about preparing Ghana for a future where technology defines opportunity, security, and prosperity.

Conclusion

The lion’s roar is not a threat—it is a call to action. Dzata’s reform agenda deserves thoughtful scrutiny and collective support. His willingness to engage and open up the process for public input is an acknowledgement that we are in this metaverse together. In a digital age where every click leaves a footprint, Ghana’s narrative should be one of empowerment, resilience, and innovation.

Dzata means well. Let’s make sure Ghana’s digital story ends well, too.