The Deputy Minister for Works and Housing, Dr Prince Hamid Armah has underscored the pivotal role of urbanisation and smart cities in driving Ghana's sustainable development.

Addressing the audience at the Accra International Conference Centre on Wednesday, June 26, he highlighted the government's renewed commitment to inclusive and sustainable industrialisation.

Opening with greetings from the Minister of Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, he delved into the transformative potential of urbanisation, noting that approximately 58% of Ghana's population now resides in urban areas, with an urbanisation rate of 3.4% per year.

While this trend presents opportunities for economic growth, it also poses significant challenges that require innovative solutions.

Dr. Armah passionately advocated for the development of smart cities as a key strategy to address these challenges.

He explained that smart cities leverage technology, data, and innovation to enhance residents' quality of life, improve service efficiency, and promote sustainability.

He highlighted the government's efforts in this direction, including the Digital Ghana Agenda, which aims to integrate technology into urban life, and the National Broadband Infrastructure Project, designed to provide high-speed internet access nationwide.

Sustainability, Dr Armah emphasised, is central to the smart city concept.

He outlined various government initiatives aimed at promoting renewable energy, efficient waste management, and green building practices.

Notably, the Ghana Renewable Energy Master Plan aims to increase the share of renewable energy in the national energy mix, while the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan seeks to enhance public transportation and reduce traffic congestion.

Technological innovation was another key theme in Dr. Armah's address.

He stressed the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and supporting tech startups, citing the establishment of the Ghana Innovation Hub as a critical step in nurturing technological entrepreneurship.

This initiative, along with policies on digital literacy and STEM education, aims to build a workforce capable of sustaining Ghana's smart city ambitions.

Inclusivity was a recurring theme throughout Dr. Armah's speech.

He emphasised that a truly smart city ensures that the benefits of urbanisation and technological advancements are accessible to all citizens, regardless of socio-economic status.

The government's Affordable Housing Programme and the introduction of digital financial services were highlighted as key initiatives promoting inclusivity and financial inclusion.

In his concluding remarks, Dr Armah called for a collaborative effort between the government and the private sector to realise the vision of smart cities in Ghana.

He underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in driving the smart city agenda and achieving sustainable development goals.

"Urbanisation and the development of smart cities present us with a unique opportunity to transform our urban landscapes and improve the quality of life for all Ghanaians," Dr Armah stated.

"Together, we can build cities that are not only smart but also vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive, driving our nation towards a prosperous and equitable future."

Dr Armah's address at the Ghana Industrialisation Week has set a visionary path for Ghana's urban and industrial future, inspiring all stakeholders to contribute towards a brighter tomorrow.

The 24th edition of the Ghana Industrialisation Week was under the theme: “Renaissance of Ghana’s Industrialisation; The Renewed Commitment Towards Inclusive and Sustainable Development, Produce, Add Value and Economic Diversification.”