The announced reforms are pivotal in expanding affordable connectivity, building a future-ready digital workforce, and establishing Ghana as a frontrunner in Africa’s telecom and digital economy landscape.

Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has outlined reforms and key milestones in the country’s digital transformation agenda. This was during the Ministry’s second quarter (Q2) briefing held at the Information Services Department Press Centre on July 3.

The Minister announced that, effective July 1, all major mobile network operators have revised their data tariffs to provide greater value. MTN bundles have increased by 15%, while Telecel and AirtelTigo bundles have risen by 10%, allowing consumers to access more data at existing price points.

According to the Minister, these changes are part of broader sector reforms involving spectrum reviews, new licensing models tied to consumer pricing, and strengthened regulatory engagement to make internet access more affordable and equitable.

Hon. George announced that the Ministry has completed a review of existing ICT laws and is drafting 15 new bills. These include amendments to data protection and cybersecurity legislation and new frameworks to govern artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and digital trade.

He further revealed that the Ghana Startup Bill, which proposes tax incentives and regulatory clarity for startups, is on track for passage by December 2025. Additionally, a draft National Anti-Misinformation Bill is set to be presented to Parliament to combat the spread of false information online, while safeguarding freedom of expression.

Looking ahead, the Minister unveiled that Ghana’s draft National AI Strategy will be reviewed by Cabinet and launched in the third quarter of 2025. The strategy positions Ghana to become a leading AI hub in Africa by 2028.

On 5G deployment, Minister George reported that the Next Generation Infrastructure Company (NGIC) is on schedule to activate over 350 5G-ready cell sites by Q4 2025, including at least 50 sites going live in Accra and Kumasi. He emphasized that there would be no further deadline extensions, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring universal 5G access.

Addressing digital payments, the minister revealed ongoing collaborations with the Bank of Ghana to restore full PayPal access and broaden digital payment solutions for individuals and businesses. He also highlighted ongoing talks with platforms such as TikTok and MultiChoice Ghana on issues related to content safety, fair compensation for creators, and subscription pricing — part of wider efforts to strengthen consumer protection and grow the digital economy.

Together, these measures make Ghana’s digital ecosystem more inclusive, affordable, secure, and globally competitive, supporting the country's vision to become a leading digital economy and technology hub in Africa.

Hikmatu Bilali