Ambassador Samuel Ben Owusu has championed technological solutions for Africa's development at the United Nations headquarters. He spoke at the 11th Annual UN Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals (STI Forum 2026). The forum took place on May 6-7, 2026.
Amb. Owusu stressed the need for technology to improve water security and promote peace in Africa. He warned that environmental crimes like illegal mining threaten water resources. These actions also harm public health and stability in African communities. He called for stronger alliances between governments, private companies, and the UN. This cooperation aims to transfer technology and build skills in affected areas.
The forum aligns with Ghana's broader economic and development goals. The nation is keen to leverage innovation for progress. This engagement reflects Ghana's commitment to the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Sustainable water management is a key focus for Ghana's development strategy. The country faces challenges in balancing resource use with economic growth. Data shows that water scarcity impacts agricultural output and public health.
"Africa’s future depends on how we harness science and innovation for water security, accountable governance, and peace," Amb. Owusu stated. "Civil society must be at the table to ensure these solutions are people-centered and sustainable." He is the West Africa Head of Mission for the Pan-African AU Agenda 2063 Diplomatic Mission. He also serves as Country Director for the International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA-Ghana).
Amb. Owusu's participation is expected to influence Ghana's upcoming initiatives. These include the Africa Day Celebration and Leadership Summit 2026 on May 25. The summit theme is "Assuring Sustainable Water, Science and Technology, Peace and Security." This focus on tech for development underscores Ghana's forward-looking approach to national and regional challenges. The outcomes of discussions on digital literacy and peacebuilding will guide future programs.
This UN engagement highlights the growing recognition of technology's role in achieving global development targets. It also emphasizes Ghana's active participation in international forums shaping policy. The focus on responsible innovation and people-centered solutions signals a conscious effort to ensure technology benefits all segments of society. The partnerships forged at the forum could unlock new avenues for investment and capacity building. This supports Ghana's ambition to be a hub for innovation in West Africa.
The discussions covered digital transformation and the responsible use of artificial intelligence. Amb. Owusu advocated for African nations to have a voice in global tech standards. He also met with officials from UN DESA, UNESCO, and UNDP. These meetings explored potential collaborations. They focused on digital literacy, peacebuilding, and supporting youth innovation. Such collaborative efforts are crucial for translating global goals into local impact.
The insights gained will also inform advocacy on SDG 16, which concerns peace, justice, and strong institutions. This holistic approach reflects a comprehensive strategy for sustainable development. It connects technological advancement with social progress and stability. Ghana's proactive stance on such critical issues positions it as a leader in driving Africa's development agenda. The country's commitment to inclusivity ensures that progress is shared across its population.
The International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA-Ghana) is committed to peace and accountability. Its work aligns with Agenda 2063 and the SDGs. These principles guide its engagement in promoting responsible innovation. The upcoming summit in Accra will further explore these vital themes. It aims to foster dialogue and action on critical development issues.