Ghana has an uphill climb in its quest for Networked Readiness. Many positive changes are underway but many obstacles remain. The now independent government of Ghana is eager to face the obstacles head on and they believe the future of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as an investment worth making. This paper uses the Harvard University's Center for International Development Guide called Readiness for the Networked World: A Guide for Developing Countries framework for evaluating Ghana. It explores the stage at which Ghana participates in each category of Network Access, Networked Learning, Networked Society, Networked Economy and Networked Policy. Additionally, we looked at Ghana's ability to compete in the outsourcing space.

A brief summarization of each of the categories is as follows:

1. Network Access(Stage 2): High costs and slow speed renders the Internet useless for anything more than simple e-mail communications and only easily reached from urban locals. The ten ISPs plus, other providers, result in an internet penetration of about 170,000 out of 20 million (.08%). Even though the telecommunication industry has deregulated, competition and privatization is still evolving.

2. Networked Learning (Stage 2): The domestic economy continues to revolve around agriculture with 60% of the work force concentrated there. The Ministry of Education recognized the role the IT industry could play and are supportive of accepting computer equipment in schools. However, Ghana¡¦s main focus is on basic education and reform. There are several universities but only a few offer degrees in computer related studies. Ghana Vision 2020 has the primary responsibility for providing the means for the population to acquire the necessary skills to cope in an increasingly competitive economy.

3. Networked Society (Stage 2): Most of the points of access to the internet are via cybercafes and roaming telecenters. It is not common to have access from home. Most of the activity is from e-mail and content is relatively static.

4. Networked Economy (Stage 2): In business, internet access is granted only to those at the top. True b-2-b or b-2-c transactions are few and far between. Demand for electronic business in a society that deals largely in cash is virtually non-existant. Government projects drive technology forward and successful projects demonstrate that technology can have a positive impact to productivity.

5. Networked Policy (Stage 2): Through the help of the NCA (National Communication Authority), Ghana ensures there is adequate competition and competent investment in communications. They face challenges to protect intellectual property and to ensure privacy. World Bank completed a full ICT study in 1997 that resulted in many positive initiatives. Policy priorities include tighter monetary and fiscal policies, accelerated privatization, and improvement of social services.