Digital Week Dortmund: A Vision for Takoradi as Ghana's Digital Hub
Reflections from Digital Week Dortmund on building intentional digital ecosystems and the vision to position Takoradi as Ghana's digital home for startups.
Last week, I was in Dortmund, Germany, attending Digital Week Dortmund (#diwodo) as the Lead for Naa Sika, by the kind invitation of the City of Dortmund through GIZ Ghana. The experience was both inspiring and thought-provoking, offering valuable insights into how cities can intentionally shape their digital futures.
Dortmund's Intentional Digital Transformation
What strikes me most about Dortmund is how intentional the city is about its digital future. This isn't just a city hosting tech events—Dortmund is deliberately shaping itself into Europe's version of Silicon Valley. The approach is strategic, comprehensive, and built on collaboration.
From opening its doors to startups and entrepreneurs to creating platforms where business, government, and innovators collaborate seamlessly, Dortmund is laying down the foundation for a thriving tech ecosystem. The city understands that building a digital hub requires more than just infrastructure—it demands vision, leadership, and intentional action.
The Power of Collaboration
One of the most impressive aspects of Digital Week Dortmund was witnessing how different stakeholders came together. The event wasn't just about showcasing technology—it was about creating connections, fostering partnerships, and building a community around digital innovation.
The collaboration between government, private sector, and innovators in Dortmund demonstrates a model that can be replicated elsewhere. When these groups work together with a shared vision, remarkable things can happen. The city has created an environment where startups can thrive, where innovation is celebrated, and where the digital economy is actively cultivated.
Remembering the Takoradi Vision
Being in Dortmund reminded me of conversations we had some years back, when a few of us tech founders dreamed of positioning Takoradi as the digital home for startups in Ghana. The vision was clear then: to create a thriving tech ecosystem in the Western Region that would attract entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators.
Seeing Dortmund's example today tells me that vision is still possible—and perhaps more relevant than ever. The talent, energy, and opportunity exist in Takoradi and the Western Region. What we need is the same intentional leadership and collaborative approach that Dortmund has demonstrated.
"If Dortmund can show such deliberate leadership in building a digital hub, why not Takoradi? The talent, energy, and opportunity are here; we need to harness them."
Why Takoradi?
Takoradi, the capital of Ghana's Western Region, has unique advantages that position it well to become a digital hub:
- Strategic Location: As a major port city and gateway to West Africa, Takoradi has natural advantages for trade and connectivity
- Educational Institutions: Home to Takoradi Technical University and other institutions that produce tech talent
- Growing Tech Community: A vibrant community of entrepreneurs and innovators already exists
- Cost Advantages: Lower operational costs compared to Accra, making it attractive for startups
- Quality of Life: A more relaxed pace of life that can attract talent seeking work-life balance
The Path Forward
I believe the time is right to reassemble that team, and this time work hand in hand with the Western Regional Minister, Hon Joseph Nelson, and the Ministry for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations (Sam Dzata George) to make it real.
The vision requires:
- Government Support: Policy frameworks and infrastructure that support digital innovation
- Private Sector Engagement: Investment and partnerships from established businesses
- Community Building: Creating spaces and events that bring the tech community together
- Education and Training: Programs that develop and retain tech talent in the region
- Access to Capital: Funding mechanisms that support startups at different stages
Lessons from Dortmund
Dortmund's success offers several key lessons for building a digital hub:
- Intentionality Matters: Building a digital ecosystem requires deliberate planning and action, not just hope
- Collaboration is Key: Success comes from bringing together government, business, and innovators
- Long-term Vision: Building a digital hub is a long-term commitment that requires sustained effort
- Open Doors: Creating an environment that welcomes startups and entrepreneurs from everywhere
- Platform Creation: Building events and spaces that facilitate connection and innovation
Ready to Lead the Conversation
I'm ready to help lead that conversation again. The experience in Dortmund has reinforced my belief that with the right vision, leadership, and collaboration, Takoradi can become Ghana's digital hub.
The foundation is there. The talent exists. The opportunity is clear. What we need now is to bring together the right stakeholders, create a shared vision, and take intentional steps toward making it a reality.
Just as Dortmund has shown what's possible with intentional leadership, Takoradi can demonstrate how African cities can build thriving digital ecosystems that serve their communities and contribute to economic growth. The time is now, and I'm committed to being part of making it happen.
Building Ghana's Digital Future
The vision for Takoradi as a digital hub isn't just about creating another tech center—it's about building Ghana's digital future in a way that's inclusive, sustainable, and beneficial for the entire Western Region. It's about creating opportunities for young people, attracting investment, and positioning Ghana as a leader in digital innovation across Africa.
With the support of government leaders, the engagement of the private sector, and the energy of the tech community, we can make this vision a reality. Dortmund has shown us the way—now it's time to adapt that model for Ghana and make Takoradi the digital home for startups that we envisioned years ago.