AI experts at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, under the AI4SD Project, have unveiled AI-powered sensors designed to monitor chemical turbidity and remove toxic heavy metals from water bodies polluted by illegal mining, locally known as galamsey.

The initiative leverages advanced artificial intelligence tools to transform critical sectors of Ghana’s economy, including water resources, agriculture, energy, health, and education, in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

At the AI4SD Mini Conference 2026, held at KNUST’s IDL Conference Centre, researchers showcased a range of innovations aimed at mitigating the effects of illegal mining on water bodies, enhancing food security, improving energy reliability, and promoting inclusive digital education.

In agriculture, the project introduced a Crop Disease Detection Toolbox and a Smart Indigenous Weather App to help farmers make informed decisions, boost productivity, and strengthen food security nationwide.

In the energy sector, AI4SD is collaborating with the Ghana Grid Company to deploy AI systems capable of predicting transformer faults, ensuring a more reliable power supply across the country.

Delivering the welcome address, Prof. Jerry John Kponyo, Project Lead of AI4SD, described the conference as more than a discussion platform, calling it a practical call to action.

“To ensure no one is left behind, our team has released the SignTalk Ghana dataset, a collection of over 10,000 Ghanaian sign language videos representing more than 4,000 structured sentences in healthcare interactions. This resource will enable deaf patients to communicate effectively in consulting rooms. We are also tackling environmental challenges head-on,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Prof. Rita Akosua Dickson, expressed excitement about the achievements of the AI4SD team, describing the initiative as a strong demonstration of how universities can drive national and global development.

She urged stakeholders to actively support efforts aimed at meeting the SDGs.