Ghana’s Digital Future: Minister Unveils Sweeping Reforms on Access, AI, and 5G
Legislative reforms are also underway, with 15 new digital-related bills in draft, including updates to data protection, cybersecurity, and new frameworks for AI, cloud computing, and digital trade.
The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations , Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), has unveiled major developments in Ghana’s digital transformation during the Ministry’s second quarter briefing at the Information Services Department Press Centre.
A key announcement was the reduction in data costs, with mobile network operators adjusting their tariffs to offer more data at existing price points. Effective July 1, MTN bundles increased by 15%, while Telecel and AirtelTigo rose by 10%. High-use data plans have also improved, with MTN’s GHS399 package now offering 214GB, up from 92GB.
These changes are part of ongoing sector reforms tied to spectrum management, consumer pricing regulations, and licensing updates aimed at making digital access more affordable and inclusive.
Hon. Nartey George also revealed progress under the One Million Coders Programme, noting that 859 youth—more than half women—have already been trained in Accra, Kumasi, Sunyani, and Bolgatanga. The programme targets 50,000 beneficiaries by year-end.
Legislative reforms are also underway, with 15 new digital-related bills in draft, including updates to data protection, cybersecurity, and new frameworks for AI, cloud computing, and digital trade. The Ghana Startup Bill, offering tax incentives and regulatory clarity for startups, is expected to pass by December 2025.
In response to online misinformation, a draft National Anti-Misinformation Bill is being prepared for Parliament.
On AI, the Minister confirmed that Ghana’s National AI Strategy—developed with KNUST , UNESCO , and the British High Commission—will be launched in Q3 2025. The plan positions Ghana as a leading AI hub in Africa by 2028.
In terms of infrastructure, the Next Generation Infrastructure Company (NGIC) is set to activate 350 5G-ready cell sites by Q4 2025, with 50 sites going live in Accra and Kumasi. The Minister reaffirmed that there will be no deadline extensions.
Under the Girls-in-ICT initiative, 1,000 girls from the Volta Region have been trained, with plans to expand to the Upper East and Upper West. Top performers were awarded laptops and new ICT labs will be established in their schools.
The Ministry is also working with the Bank of Ghana to restore full PayPal access and enhance digital payment solutions. Engagements with TikTok and MultiChoice Ghana are ongoing, focusing on content safety, fair compensation for creators, and subscription pricing.
Calling for collaboration, the Minister urged the private sector and civil society to support and hold the Ministry accountable as it works to deliver inclusive digital progress.
