Ghana Forges Ahead: Minister Samuel Nartey George Unveils Bold Digital Roadmap

Accra, Ghana – Samuel Nartey George, now serving as the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations of Ghana, has presented a comprehensive blueprint for the nation’s digital future, emphasizing significant reforms in telecommunications, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure. His pronouncements, made during a recent briefing that solidified his ministerial role, underscore Ghana’s unwavering commitment to establishing itself as a leading digital economy in Africa.

Minister George’s vision encompasses a multi-faceted approach, tackling long-standing issues and introducing cutting-edge initiatives to ensure a secure, connected, and innovation-driven environment for all Ghanaians.

Overhauling SIM Registration for Enhanced Security

A core focus of the Minister’s agenda is the complete overhaul of SIM card registration. He detailed a robust three-phase process being implemented by the National Communications Authority (NCA):

1. Biometric Validation and Data Cleanup: Ensuring the accuracy and integrity of existing SIM records.
2. Controlled New Registrations: Implementing stricter controls for new SIM activations.
3. Business SIM Verification: Rigorous verification of SIMs used by businesses and the deactivation of non-compliant records.

A new legal instrument (LI) is currently before Parliament to replace the outdated 2010 framework, providing a modern and robust legal backing for these changes. The new registration system is designed to be fully electronic, eliminating the queues and manual processes of the past. With biometric data cleanup already 80% complete, the public rollout of new SIM registrations is anticipated before the end of the third quarter.

Combating Device Theft with the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR)

To combat the pervasive issue of mobile phone theft and the influx of counterfeit devices, Ghana is implementing a Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR). This system will monitor, identify, and ultimately block stolen and illicit devices using their unique IMEI numbers. The CEIR will integrate seamlessly with SIM registration systems, customs, and the NCA’s type approval and dealership registry, creating a formidable barrier against illegal device trade.

Expanding Regional Connectivity with ECOWAS Roaming Ghana

In a move set to ease cross-border communication and boost regional integration, Ghana’s bilateral roaming service is now operational with Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, and Benin. This initiative allows travelers to pay local rates when using their phones in these countries. Testing has been successfully completed with The Gambia, and advanced discussions are underway with Nigeria, with a target to go live by the close of 2025.

Strengthening Telecom Resilience and Regulatory Frameworks

Minister George also highlighted the completion of the National Telecommunications Emergency Plan, a critical measure to ensure communications resilience even if commercial networks face disruptions. Additionally, the Ministry is developing and revising licensing frameworks for a wide array of services, including communication managed services, internet exchange points (IXPs), submarine carriers, and communication dealerships, adapting to the evolving technological landscape.

Attracting IXPs to Boost Internet Speed and Reduce Costs

Ghana is actively working to attract more local Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) to reduce data consumption and enhance internet speed by shortening data travel distances. The commissioning of the London Internet Exchange Point in Accra, supported by backups in other data centers, is a significant step. The objective is to attract at least two more IXPs by the end of the year, which is expected to lead to a drastic reduction in internet access costs for consumers.

Advancing Cybersecurity and Combating Cybercrime

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA), under the purview of Minister George’s ministry, is intensifying Ghana’s cybersecurity efforts. Key initiatives include:

• Regulatory Enforcement and Citizen Protection: Through continuous threat monitoring, streamlined cybercrime reporting, and widespread child online protection campaigns that have reached over 55,000 young people.
• Capacity Building: With upcoming events like the 2025 National Cyber Security Challenge and the annual National Cyber Security Awareness Month. The CSA has also registered numerous cybersecurity providers, professionals, and establishments and is operationalizing sectoral Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs).
• International Cooperation: Ghana, through the CSA, plays an active role in global cybersecurity initiatives, co-chairing the ICRC ICT workstream.

Minister George underscored the CSA’s enhanced law enforcement mandate, citing successful joint operations with the Ghana Police Service and the National Intelligence Bureau. These operations have led to the surveillance, arrest, and prosecution of numerous individuals involved in cybercrimes such as romance scams, child online sexual abuse, financial platform unauthorized access, investment scams, extortion, and recruitment fraud.

Notable successes include the dismantling of a “pig butchering” fraud hosting center with over 400 arrests and the busting of a sophisticated recruitment fraud ring. The CSA has also provided critical assistance to the FBI, leading to the apprehension and extradition of individuals involved in cybercrimes with proceeds exceeding $105 million USD. Minister George reiterated his commitment to making Ghana an inhospitable environment for cybercriminals and confirmed ongoing discussions with platforms like PayPal to address cyber fraud and illicit fund flows.

Future Outlook: Digital Government Services and AI Strategy

Beyond these immediate priorities, Minister George also provided insights into broader digital transformation efforts. He announced that over 16,000 government services will soon be accessible through an upgraded Ghana.Gov platform, aiming to modernize public service delivery and improve digital governance. This redesigned platform will feature significantly faster access, full Ghana Card integration, and an intuitive interface.

Furthermore, a draft National Anti-Misinformation Bill is being prepared for Parliament to address the growing threat of online misinformation while safeguarding free speech. Ghana’s National AI Strategy, developed in collaboration with KNUST, UNESCO, and the British High Commission, is set to launch in Q3 2025, positioning Ghana as a leading AI hub in Africa by 2028. In terms of infrastructure, the Next Generation Infrastructure Company (NGIC) is slated to activate 350 5G-ready cell sites by Q4 2025, with an initial 50 sites going live in Accra and Kumasi.

These ambitious initiatives, under the leadership of Minister Samuel Nartey George, signal a new era for Ghana’s digital economy, promising enhanced security, improved connectivity, and a robust framework for innovation and growth.