Ghana Government Announces Major Policy Shift in Rural Telephony

The Ghanaian government has announced a significant and immediate policy shift in its approach to rural telephony, signaling a renewed commitment to private sector-led growth and reduced government intervention. The announcement was made by the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), during the 15-year anniversary celebration of Helios Towers.

Under the new directive, the National Communications Authority (NCA)  and the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC)  have been instructed to conduct an immediate audit of all rural telephony sites established in 2016. The core of this policy change lies in the government’s intention to decommission sites deemed “commercially viable,” thereby opening these areas for operation by commercial service providers.

Minister Nartey George explained that this strategic move is aimed at fostering a more favorable business environment and allowing the private sector to drive growth where it can effectively operate.

“The government is committed to creating a favorable business environment, emphasizing that businesses and entrepreneurs should drive growth.”

–Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Ghana.

In a strong declaration, Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP) proclaimed, “Ghana is open for business again.” This statement underscores the government’s renewed focus on attracting investment and promoting economic growth through increased private sector participation across the nation. The policy shift is expected to stimulate competition and potentially expand access to telecommunication services in rural areas through market-driven initiatives.