The National Information Technology Agency (NITA) Bill remains in flux. Acting Director-General Ing. Dr Mark-Oliver Kevor stated that a new approach to consultation has confused the public. This exploratory process began engaging stakeholders very early. It aimed to gather broad input before formal drafting happened. This novelty has led to misunderstandings about the bill's status and content. Dr Kevor explained that not all suggestions can be included. He likened it to avoiding a 'whole book of wishes'.
A key challenge involves sorting out overlapping rules. Bodies like the Data Protection Commission and the National Communications Authority (NCA) have related mandates. The proposed bill seeks to define clear boundaries for these institutions. This is vital for Ghana's information and communication technology (ICT) ecosystem. The ICT sector is broad. It touches areas like farming, health, and digital services. This requires coordination among many regulators.
Concerns about the bill reaching Parliament prematurely were addressed. Dr Kevor stressed the process is still ongoing. Following stakeholder talks, the proposal moves to Cabinet. Next, the Attorney-General’s Department will draft the legal text. Only then will it be presented to Parliament. Confusion also stems from NITA's own dormant regulatory powers. Act 771 established NITA as a regulator. However, these powers have not been fully used until now. He noted that some confused current NITA actions with the proposed bill.
The reforms aim to boost NITA's oversight. This includes supervising government ICT projects. The supervision covers the entire project lifecycle. This means from planning through to deployment. Discussions are also happening about licensing ICT professionals. This depends on how information systems are defined. The NITA Bill is expected to evolve further. Its journey through policy and legislative development continues.