Smart Cities and Regional Development: The Role of Digital Infrastructure in Enhancing Regional Competitiveness in Ghana

Musah Ibrahim Mordzeh-Ekpampo

Abstract: Enhancing smart cities and regional development require leveraging on digital tools and technologies to build liveable cities. Population growth in recent times does not commensurate regional planning and development, resulting in congestion and blur competitiveness. The study empirically examines the concept of smart cities, focusing on how digital infrastructure can enhance regional competitiveness. It also identified the key challenges that Ghana faces in implementing these strategies and provide insights into how these obstacles can be overcome. Findings highlights the rapid population growth which has both positive and negative effects. The positive side enhances human resources and social capital, which is crucial for socio-economic progress. However, the negative aspect creates rising demand for energy, water, sanitation, education, healthcare, housing, transportation, and public services, putting immense pressure on city infrastructures. Successful implementation involves tackling pervasive issues such as governance inefficiencies, limited public-private collaboration, and the digital divide between urban and rural areas. Digital infrastructure serves as the foundation for contemporary and innovative economy. Therefore, advancing digital transformation and smart city strategies in Ghana requires addressing broader socio-economic challenges such as traffic congestion, urban sprawl, air pollution, and ecosystem degradation. Investing in education, infrastructure, and inclusive policymaking would be critical to overcoming these hurdles and ensuring the successful realization of smart city objectives in Ghana.

Keywords: smart cities, digital infrastructure, challenges, implementation strategies, Ghana

How to Cite?: Musah Ibrahim Mordzeh-Ekpampo, "Smart Cities and Regional Development: The Role of Digital Infrastructure in Enhancing Regional Competitiveness in Ghana", Volume 14 Issue 8, August 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 839-843, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25713033810, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25713033810