The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), has unveiled significant strides in Ghana’s digital transformation journey during the Ministry’s second quarter (Q2) briefing held at the Information Services Department Press Centre.
Highlighting a major milestone in data affordability, the Minister announced that effective July 1, all major mobile network operators have adjusted their data tariffs, resulting in increased data volumes at existing price points. MTN bundles have risen by 15%, while Telecel and AirtelTigo have seen a 10% increase.
He said high-use data packages have also improved significantly, with MTN’s GHS399 bundle now offering 214GB, up from 92GB, with similar enhancements across other networks.
These changes, he explained, were part of broader sector reforms that include spectrum reviews, new licensing regimes tied to consumer pricing, and enhanced regulatory engagement, all geared towards making digital access more affordable and inclusive.
The Minister also outlined several ongoing initiatives and legislative reforms designed to accelerate the nation’s digital agenda.
Under the One Million Coders Programme, launched in April, he revealed that 859 young people, more than half of them women, have been trained in coding across Accra, Kumasi, Sunyani, and Bolgatanga. The programme aims to train 50,000 individuals by the end of the year, supporting Ghana’s goal of nurturing a digitally skilled workforce.
He revealed that the Ministry has completed a review of existing ICT laws and is drafting 15 new bills, including amendments to data protection and cybersecurity legislation, as well as new frameworks to govern AI, cloud computing, and digital trade.
The Minister indicated that the Ghana Startup Bill, which proposes tax incentives and regulatory clarity for startups, was on track for passage by December 2025.
According to him, a draft National Anti-Misinformation Bill was also set to be presented to Parliament to curb the spread of false information online while safeguarding freedom of expression.
On the future of emerging technologies, Hon. Nartey George announced that Ghana’s draft National AI Strategy, developed in partnership with KNUST, UNESCO, and the British High Commission, will be reviewed by Cabinet and launched in the third quarter of 2025. The strategy envisions Ghana as a leading AI hub in Africa by 2028.
Touching on 5G deployment, the Minister said the Next Generation Infrastructure Company (NGIC) was on track to activate more than 350 5G-ready cell sites by the fourth quarter of 2025, with at least 50 sites expected to go live in Accra and Kumasi.
He stressed that there would be no further deadline extensions, underlining the Ministry’s firm commitment to universal 5G access.
On digital inclusion, the Minister announced that 1,000 girls in the Volta Region have been trained under the Girls-in-ICT initiative this year. Top performers received laptops and awards, and ICT laboratories will be established in their schools.
The programme, he mentioned, was expected to be extended to the Upper East and Upper West regions.
Addressing the issue of digital payments, Hon. Nartey George stated that the Ministry is working closely with the Bank of Ghana to restore full PayPal access and expand digital payment solutions for both individuals and businesses.
He also disclosed ongoing platform engagements, including discussions with TikTok and MultiChoice Ghana, focused on content safety, fair compensation for creators, and subscription pricing, part of a wider effort to protect consumers and grow the digital economy.
Reaffirming his Ministry’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive digital development, he called on the private sector and civil society to support and hold the Ministry accountable for delivering on its promises.
