Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, MP, has met with telecommunications chiefs to discuss strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure and services, assuring investors of continued profitability while improving customer experience.
The meeting on Friday brought together key industry stakeholders to address critical challenges in the telecommunications sector and chart a path forward for digital transformation.
Mr. George emphasised the importance of collaboration to ensure the success of digital payment initiatives and improve financial inclusion across Ghana.
He highlighted the need for improved service quality and proper SIM registration to prevent crime and enhance security.
The minister outlined key priorities for the telecommunications sector, focusing on improving service quality and customer experience across all networks.
He also stressed the critical importance of implementing proper SIM registration and IMEI regulation to prevent crime and enhance national security. Additionally, the meeting addressed the need for enhanced digital payment systems for government services and promoting financial inclusion while reducing cash transactions throughout the economy.
“We need to work together to get it done,” Mr. George said, highlighting the government’s commitment to working with MTN and other stakeholders to achieve these goals.
The meeting, which was attended by Stephen Blewett, MTN Ghana chief executive, along with officials from Telecel and AirtelTigo, had a graphical presentation of localities where MNOs met license obligations.
A key point of discussion was data pricing, with the minister reiterating his commitment to reducing costs for consumers.
“I said before the end of this year, we will see a drop in data prices,” he said.
“I am still well within the timeline I have set. However, we will do this so that we don’t create a shock in the ecosystem.”
Mr. George called for data prices to reflect the current performance of the cedi, noting that the country’s currency has seen significant improvement, resulting in price reductions across various sectors of the economy.
“If we do this together right, we will reset the sector. You would remain profitable for those who are profitable; for those who are loss-making, you will take the lead and become profitable. Because when people get a better experience, they will spend more,” he explained.
Both parties agreed to work closely together to address the challenges and promote a secure digital environment that benefits all Ghanaians.
Also present at the meeting were the acting director-general of the National Communications Authority, Rev. Ing. Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko, and Dr. Sofo Tanko Rashid Computer, the acting chief executive of the Ghana Investment Fund.
Friday’s programme represented a significant step towards achieving the government’s vision of a robust digital economy that serves the needs of businesses and citizens alike.
