Cabinet Reviewing Proposed at Ghana–Telecel Merger, Says Communications Minister Samuel George
Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George.
Accra, Ghana — The Government of Ghana is reviewing a proposed merger and restructuring between AT Ghana (formerly AirtelTigo) and Telecel Ghana, according to Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations.
Speaking in an interview with TV3 on Wednesday, the minister confirmed that a comprehensive document outlining the restructuring plan has been submitted to Cabinet for approval, with a final decision expected by the end of 2025.
“My position is simple. I have sent it to Cabinet for approval. I am waiting for Cabinet to look at it,” Sam George said. “It is before Cabinet, and once Cabinet considers and gives us a directive, we will make it public.”
The Ministry of Communications has described the proposed merger as part of broader efforts to build a stronger, more resilient telecommunications company that can compete effectively in Ghana’s rapidly evolving digital economy.
The merger plan aims to consolidate assets, streamline operations, and expand infrastructure coverage across underserved areas, in line with the government’s digital transformation agenda.
However, the minister emphasized that no additional public investment would be made until the government completes a full audit of its holdings and operations within both companies.
“This new management must not put fresh money without auditing what the management of that company has done,” he cautioned. “It will be a disservice of the Mahama administration to take any further taxpayers’ money and invest in a company that has been mismanaged in that manner.”
The Government of Ghana currently owns 100% of AT Ghana, which was acquired in 2021 following the exit of Airtel and Millicom, and holds a 30% minority stake in Telecel Ghana, which acquired Vodafone Ghana in 2023.
The minister said an independent review of the government’s financial exposure in both companies is necessary before Cabinet can make an informed decision on the proposed merger or any potential capital injection.
“We need to fully understand the government’s interest in these telecom holdings before authorizing any new investment,” Sam George stated.
The telecom sector remains one of Ghana’s most dynamic industries, contributing nearly 5% to GDP and employing tens of thousands nationwide. However, market analysts have noted declining profitability among smaller operators and growing market concentration around MTN Ghana, which holds an estimated 65% market share.
The proposed AT Ghana–Telecel merger is expected to reshape competition and could position the new entity as Ghana’s second-largest operator by subscriber base, depending on regulatory approval and the merger’s financial structure.
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