Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has urged Commonwealth member states to strengthen cooperation and coordinate their positions to advance shared interests at the ongoing International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Plenipotentiary Conference 2026 (PP-26) in Doha, Qatar.
Speaking as Chair of the Commonwealth ITU Group at a high-level roundtable of Commonwealth member states, the Minister called for collective action to influence global telecommunications and digital policies, particularly on issues affecting developing countries and underserved populations.
He noted that approximately two billion people remain unconnected globally, stressing that the Commonwealth must leverage its collective influence to advance universal connectivity, digital inclusion and equitable access to emerging technologies.
Mr George acknowledged the varying priorities of member states but said their shared interests provided a strong foundation for cooperation.
He highlighted spectrum access and satellite connectivity as key priorities for small island states, investment and last-mile connectivity for developing countries, and innovation and security for more advanced economies.
The Minister urged delegates to identify common ground, agree on issues requiring coordinated positions during committee and plenary deliberations, and establish a clear plan of action to strengthen the group’s influence throughout the conference.
The roundtable also offered candidates from Commonwealth member states seeking positions within the ITU an opportunity to present their cases and solicit support from fellow members.
Ghana, which currently chairs the Commonwealth ITU Group, is seeking re-election to the ITU Council for Region D and the Radio Regulations Board (RRB).
Mr George said Ghana would present its case alongside other candidates, emphasising the need to provide all contestants with a fair opportunity to engage member states and seek their support.
Reaffirming the importance of Commonwealth solidarity, he called on members to harmonise their positions, strengthen mutual support and work towards an inclusive, secure and resilient digital future.
He added that the Commonwealth’s strength lies in its ability to unite countries of different sizes and levels of development to achieve outcomes that individual nations might struggle to secure independently.
Ghana’s chairmanship of the Commonwealth ITU Group provides a platform for the country to facilitate dialogue, build consensus and advance the collective interests of member states in shaping the future of global telecommunications.
