Minister of Communication, Digitalisation, Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Dzata George, has told the three main telecommunications companies to improve the quality of their services or face sanctions.
Speaking at a meeting in Accra with the chief executives of MTN Ghana, AirtelTigo, and Telecel, the Minister emphasised the government’s commitment to enforcing standards that protect consumers.
The meeting was prompted by the results of a recent National Communications Authority (NCA) survey conducted in the first quarter of the year, covering 48 localities across Ghana.
The survey revealed widespread customer dissatisfaction with the current service quality of the telcos.
Sanctions to benefit customers directly
He outlined that fines imposed on telcos for service lapses would be partially passed back to consumers.
“Between 40 to 50% of the sanctions will be shared with customers through either data or call time on their networks,” he explained, signalling a consumer-focused approach in handling telecom penalties.
Spectrum allocation for improvement
Highlighting government efforts to strengthen the sector, the Minister disclosed ongoing negotiations with a strategic partner to revamp AirtelTigo.
“We have started those conversations and have a 60-day window to complete them. By the end of the third quarter, we expect improved services to be rolled out fully,” he said.
Additionally, the Cabinet has approved the allocation of spectrum to both Telecel and MTN to boost their service quality.
He set clear timelines for improvements, expecting spectrum utilisation to begin by September 2025 and significant service enhancements to be visible by December 2025.
Roadmap to reduce data Prices without disruptions
Addressing concerns about data pricing, the Minister revealed that a committee was established in February to develop a roadmap for reducing data costs by the end of 2025.
However, he cautioned against sudden changes that could destabilise the industry, emphasising a staggered approach to maintain investment viability.
“We want to ensure price, value, and quality improve steadily without shocking the ecosystem,” he said.
Upcoming govt briefing on value for money
Sam George announced plans to brief the nation in early July on value-for-money initiatives by the telecom operators.
He promised that the government would ensure consumers receive more value in all bundle offerings.
“An announcement will be made on increased value across all bundle offerings to ensure Ghanaians get more for what they pay,” he said.
Commitment to resetting the telecom sector
The Minister reiterated the government’s dedication to “resetting the sector” to promote profitability and better consumer experiences.
“Those who are profitable will remain so, and those who are loss-making will become profitable because when people get a better experience, they will spend more,” he explained.
The CEOs of MTN Ghana, AirtelTigo, and Telecel acknowledged the importance of the Minister’s meeting and pledged to work diligently to address existing challenges.
They committed to meeting the Ministry’s deadlines to enhance service quality and customer satisfaction in Ghana’s telecom sector.
