Communications, Digital Technology & Innovation Minister, Samuel Nartey George, has proposed a policy that would require Ghanaians to give their National Identity Card or driver’s licence details before accessing pornographic websites.
What the proposal covers, June 4-5, 2026:
1. Age Verification Mandate: The policy aims to prevent minors from viewing sexually explicit content online. Internet users would need to verify their age using the Ghana Card or a driver’s licence.
2. Cultural Concerns: Sam George warned of the “cultural impact of foreign digital content” on Ghanaian youth. He argues the measure is about protecting children, not restricting adults.
3. Pushback: Some stakeholders are asking government to “prioritise data prices, not ID-for-porn policy” instead, saying affordability is a bigger issue for most Ghanaians.
4. Implementation: No timeline yet. The Ministry would likely work with ISPs, telecom companies, and adult sites to enforce the checks if passed.
The debate comes as Ghana ramps up digital regulation. On the same day, other MPs like Dr Apaak urged government to “commit up to 2% of GDP to digital infrastructure” instead of content restrictions.
Why it matters
If implemented, Ghana would join a small group of countries requiring ID verification for adult content. Critics raise privacy and data protection concerns; supporters say it’s necessary child protection.
