The Policy Statement As part of the mission aimed at: developing a highly competitive ICT-led value-added and exportorientated services sector driven by a dynamic ICT services sub-sector and industry and to develop a knowledge-based, technology-driven light modern industrial sector with a dynamic export-led and globally competitive ICT sub-industry, the Government shall be promoting a number of ICT production initiatives targeted at developing the local ICT industry in areas like assembling of computers for the local market and export; the development of a local industry for the repair and maintenance of ICT equipment; the development of software for the domestic and export market; the provision of ICT services to support other sectors of the economy This policy commitment shall in addition contribute to addressing some of the other identified developmental challenges facing Ghana, including: the challenges of the disproportionate informal private sector; the challenges of the low job creation capacity of the economy, the challenges of the weak scientific research base and under-developed research and development (R&D) capacity, as well as the challenges of the narrow export base dominated by traditional exports Policy Objectives and Strategies The Objectives • To promote and support the development of a local industry for the manufacture, assembly repair and maintenance of computer and communication equipments and products • To promote and facilitate the development of a world-class software development industry targeting both the domestic and the export market • To stimulate, promote and encourage innovation within the ICT industry and sector as a basis for promoting growth within the industry, provision of quality of services and the development of advance and reliable communications infrastructure • To transform the economy through rapid industrialization • To maintain a favourable investment climate for investment in manufacturing and provide the necessary economic infrastructure for industry • To restructure the production base with a view to changing the sectoral composition of the economy • To increase the efficiency of production and productivity in all sectors of the economy The Strategies • Promote and facilitate the development of the private sector to serve as a key driver for the development of the economy • Promote the development of a globally competitive local ICT industry for the development, production and the sale of information, knowledge, and technology products and services 50