Ambassador Dr. Samuel Ben Owusu, representing West Africa for the Pan-African AU Agenda 2063 Diplomatic Mission and Country Director for the International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA-Ghana), recently participated in the 11th Annual UN Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals (STI Forum 2026) at the United Nations headquarters in New York from May 6-7, 2026. The forum convened global stakeholders to explore how scientific advancements and innovation can accelerate progress towards the SDGs.
Context: Driving Sustainable Development Through STI
The annual STI Forum serves as a critical platform for dialogue between governments, UN agencies, academic institutions, the private sector, and civil society. Its primary objective is to identify and promote policies and actions that leverage science, technology, and innovation to achieve the ambitious targets set by the Sustainable Development Goals. This year’s forum specifically focused on the intersection of these fields with pressing global challenges.
Amb. Owusu Advocates for Inclusive Tech Governance
During the forum, Amb. Owusu actively contributed to key discussions, highlighting the importance of digital transformation and responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance. He also addressed the role of science in achieving environmental sustainability, particularly in the African context.
A central theme of his intervention was the necessity for inclusive technological approaches. Amb. Owusu stressed that African nations and their civil society organizations must have equitable access to technological advancements and a meaningful voice in shaping global technological norms and policies.
Linking Technology, Water, and Peace
Amb. Owusu particularly emphasized the critical link between technological solutions, water security, and the maintenance of peace. He pointed out that environmental degradation, including widespread illegal mining, poses a significant threat to water resources, public health, and overall stability in many African communities.
He issued a call for enhanced collaborations between national governments, the private sector, and the United Nations. These partnerships, he argued, are essential for facilitating technology transfer, building local capacity, and directing investment towards regions most affected by these challenges.
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