The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, has held discussions with the leadership of Ericsson on measures to strengthen Ghana’s digital infrastructure, improve network resilience and expand opportunities for digital skills development.
A key issue raised during the engagement was the need for better coordination between telecommunications operators and agencies responsible for road construction to protect fibre-optic infrastructure.
Hon. Samuel Nartey George stressed that reducing avoidable fibre cuts would help telecommunications companies save significant resources that could instead be channelled into expanding connectivity to underserved communities.
He said stronger coordination during road construction and other infrastructure projects was essential to protecting critical telecommunications infrastructure and ensuring reliable digital services.
The discussions also focused on Ghana’s ambition to position itself as a leading technology hub in Africa.
The minister explored opportunities for Ericsson to support the government’s One Million Coders Programme, particularly by helping create pathways through which trained beneficiaries can transition into sustainable careers in the technology sector.
He stressed the importance of moving beyond basic digital skills training to creating meaningful opportunities for young people to apply their knowledge, gain industry experience and secure sustainable employment within the technology ecosystem.
Digital financial services also featured prominently in the discussions, with both sides considering ways to strengthen network resilience to support cross-border payment systems.
The meeting also explored the development of offline capabilities that could allow essential digital services to continue operating during periods of network disruption.
Such capabilities, the discussions noted, could be particularly important for maintaining the continuity of critical digital and financial services when connectivity is temporarily interrupted.
Hon. Sam George also discussed Ghana’s proposed advocacy at the upcoming International Telecommunication Union (ITU) conference in Doha.
He said Ghana intends to advocate for stronger international protection of civilian telecommunications infrastructure, particularly critical connectivity infrastructure supporting essential services such as hospitals.
The minister emphasised the importance of protecting telecommunications networks that underpin essential public services and ensure access to communication during emergencies and other critical situations.
The engagement with Ericsson forms part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen partnerships with global technology companies as Ghana advances its digital transformation agenda.
The discussions come as Ericsson marks 30 years of operations and partnership in the region, highlighting the company’s longstanding engagement with Ghana and the wider African telecommunications ecosystem.
The engagement is expected to contribute to continued collaboration in areas including digital infrastructure, network resilience, skills development and the expansion of reliable connectivity across Ghana.
