Telecel pledges long-term investment in Ghana’s digital future during courtesy call on President Mahama

The senior leadership of telecommunications multinational Telecel Group has paid a courtesy call on President John Dramani Mahama to reaffirm its long-term commitment to investing in Ghana’s digital infrastructure and supporting national development.

The delegation, led by Telecel Group Board Chair Nicolas Bourg, Group Chief Executive Moh Damush, and Telecel Ghana CEO Ing. Patricia Obo-Nai, was accompanied by the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Sam Nartey George. The visit provided an opportunity to update the President on Telecel’s business and investment plans in Ghana’s telecommunications sector.

“We acknowledge and appreciate the conducive business environment in Ghana, made possible by strategic government policies. For Telecel, 2026 is a year of significant network expansion as we invest to improve connectivity and deliver better services to customers across the country,” said Mr. Damush.

The telecom operator said its investments will extend beyond network infrastructure to include digital education, healthcare initiatives, and broader efforts to strengthen Ghana’s digital economy. 

Telecel highlighted its partnership with government on several national priorities, including the One Million Coders Programme, where the company is supporting the training of 100,000 young people at a total cost of five million US dollars over the next four years.

Additionally, Telecel has partnered with the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (Mahama Cares) to expand cervical cancer screening and treatment across three national hospitals by donating advanced screening equipment and consumables to the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Tamale Teaching Hospital, and Sefwi Wiawso Government Hospital.

President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining a stable macro-economic environment that encourages private investment and business growth, noting that government remains focused on creating the enabling conditions for businesses to expand and contribute to national development.

Source : www.graphic.com.gh

Ericsson demonstrates portable 5G core for emergency operations

Filiberto Pagani, Mission Critical Networks Solution Manager, Ericsson

Ericsson’s Ultra Compact Core addresses mission-critical network requirements for defence and public safety operations, combining evolved packet core (EPC) and 5G core (5GC) capabilities in a compact two-server setup with one-plus-one redundancy for service continuity. Filiberto Pagani explains that it is designed for scenarios where traditional CSP coverage may be inadequate or destroyed, enabling rapid deployment of connectivity for drones, cameras and situational awareness tools.

Source : www.telecomtv.com

MTN Ghana Strengthens Support for MSMEs Through Digital Innovation

MTN Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through digital solutions, business development programmes and strategic partnerships. Speaking at the launch of the 2026 World MSME Day celebration in Accra, the company’s Senior Manager for SME Sales, Partnerships and Business Broadband, Mohammed Abubakari-Sidick, said MTN remains committed to equipping entrepreneurs with the technology, skills and support needed to grow sustainable businesses and drive economic development.

He highlighted the MTN SME Accelerate Programme, which offers sector-focused training, SME clinics and the annual MTN SME Awards. More than 700 businesses in Ho, Kumasi and Koforidua have benefited from the programme this year, with expansion planned for Tamale, Takoradi and Accra. MTN also announced its support for the MSME Business Pitch Competition, where five entrepreneurs will each receive GH¢30,000 and an MTN YellowBiz package to scale their businesses.

The event also saw the launch of the MSME Digital Gateway by the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The platform is designed to provide entrepreneurs with access to market intelligence, digital services, business information and e-commerce opportunities, reinforcing efforts to build a more competitive and digitally empowered MSME ecosystem in Ghana.

 Source : www.newsghana.com.gh

Helios Towers Strengthens Shareholder Value with Continued Share Buyback Programme

Helios Tower

Helios Towers plc has reinforced its commitment to delivering shareholder value by repurchasing 299,868 ordinary shares between 22 June and 26 June 2026 as part of its ongoing share buyback programme. The purchases, executed through Jefferies International Limited across multiple trading venues, were completed at volume-weighted average prices of approximately 213 pence per share.

The company intends to cancel all repurchased shares, reducing the total number of shares in issue to 1,042,206,816. This reduction is expected to enhance earnings per share (EPS) over time by lowering the overall share count, while also reflecting management’s confidence in the company’s long-term value and growth prospects.

The latest buyback activity demonstrates Helios Towers’ disciplined capital allocation strategy under the programme launched in November 2025. By returning excess capital to shareholders through share repurchases, the company continues to optimize its capital structure while creating the potential for greater value for existing investors.

Executed across the London Stock Exchange and major alternative trading venues, including Chi-X, BATE, Aquis, and Turquoise, the programme also highlights the company’s commitment to strong corporate governance and regulatory transparency. By cancelling the repurchased shares rather than holding them in treasury, Helios Towers provides investors with a clear and updated capital structure while ensuring compliance with market reporting requirements.

Investor sentiment also remains encouraging. The most recent analyst rating on Helios Towers stock remains Buy, with a price target of £295.00, implying meaningful upside from the recent repurchase price and reflecting continued confidence in the company’s long-term performance and strategy.

Source : www.theglobeandmail.com

Ericsson Reaffirms Commitment to China’s AI and Next-Generation Connectivity Growth

Ericsson has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to China, describing the country as one of its most strategic markets for advancing artificial intelligence (AI), 5G, and future 6G technologies. Speaking at the 2026 Summer Davos in Dalian, Chafic Nassif, Head of Ericsson Northeast Asia, praised China’s scale, innovation, and research capabilities, noting that its ability to rapidly deploy emerging technologies makes it a global leader in digital transformation.

Nassif highlighted China’s nationwide rollout of 5G Standalone networks and its growing leadership in AI-powered communications, robotics, and autonomous technologies as key drivers of future innovation. He said Ericsson is strengthening collaboration with Chinese companies on AI-native 6G development, adding that the country’s strong industrial ecosystem and research institutions continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of global connectivity.

Looking ahead, Ericsson expressed confidence in deeper international collaboration, emphasizing that openness, innovation, and strategic partnerships will remain essential to advancing the telecommunications industry. The company believes China’s continued investment in next-generation digital infrastructure will accelerate AI adoption and unlock new opportunities for industries worldwide.

Source : www.chinadaily.com.cn

Telecel Ashanti Codes train stops at Wiamoase and Obuasi

Students participating in the first cohort of the Telecel Ashanti Codes programme have showcased an impressive range of robotics and software solutions designed to address everyday challenges, marking an important milestone in the initiative’s mission to equip 1,000 learners across the Ashanti Region with digital skills.

The exhibitions, held in Wiamoase and Obuasi, brought together students, facilitators and members of the media to witness projects developed after weeks of hands-on training in coding, robotics and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies.

From obstacle-sensor robot cars, line-following robots and robotic assistants for the visually impaired to text-to-speech software, alarm applications and calculator apps, the students confidently demonstrated how technology can be used to solve practical challenges within their communities, as well as showcasing their creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Ashanti Codes, an initiative of the Telecel Ghana Foundation under this year’s Ashanti Month celebrations, is designed to introduce upper primary and junior high school students to coding, robotics, design thinking and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies through structured weekend training sessions held in Kumasi, Nsuta, Wiamoase and Obuasi.

Executive Head for Ashanti, Bono East and Ahafo at Telecel Ghana, Mr. Kwaku Asiedu, described the exhibition as a testament to the potential of young people when given the opportunity to explore technology and innovation.

“The exhibitions highlight the creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities of these students. The projects on display are proof that Ghana’s young people have talent and potential to become the next generation of innovators” hesaid.

Delivered in partnership with the Ghana Library Authority, Asustem Robotics, and supported by AngloGold Ashanti, Ashanti Codes forms part of the Telecel Ghana Foundation’s Connected Learning pillar, which seeks to bridge the digital divide and inspire the next generation of innovators, creators and digital leaders.

Foundation, Sustainability and External Communications Manager at Telecel Ghana, RitaAgyeiwaaRockson, said the exhibitions demonstrate the impact of investing in young people and creating opportunities for them to innovate.

“These exhibitions show what young people can achieve when they are given the right tools and opportunities. Ashanti Codes is helping students move beyond consuming technology to creating solutions that can improve lives, strengthen communities and prepare them for the digital economy.”

Speaking at the exhibition, Mrs. Mavis Nana Yaa Kyei, Social Development and Gender Superintendent at AngloGold Ashanti, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting initiatives that prepare young people for the future.

“Our partnership with the Telecel Ghana Foundation reflects our shared commitment to preparing young people for the future. By equipping students with robotics, AI and STEM skills, we are empowering them to think critically, innovate and develop practical solutions to real-world challenges,” shesaid.

With the successful completion of the first cohort, the programme continues its journey across the Ashanti Region, providing more young learners with access to coding, robotics and Internet of things training, and demonstrating that, when equipped with the right skills and mentorship, they can develop solutions capable of transforming their communities and shaping Ghana’s digital future.

Source : www. ameyawdebrah.com

MTN Ghana Expands Healthcare Support with Hospital Refurbishment and Patient Assistance

MTN Ghana has reinforced its commitment to improving healthcare delivery through its 2026 21 Days of Y’ello Care initiative, refurbishing hospital beds and furniture at selected health facilities while introducing financial support for vulnerable patients. Speaking during a volunteer exercise at Maamobi General Hospital, MTN Ghana CEO Stephen Blewett said the programme reflects the company’s dedication to creating lasting community impact through employee volunteerism and meaningful partnerships.

As part of the initiative, MTN Ghana has refurbished 3,880 hospital beds nationwide through repairs, repainting, mechanical restoration, and furniture refurbishment to improve patient comfort and support quality healthcare delivery. Blewett also encouraged corporate organizations to contribute actively to strengthening Ghana’s healthcare system, stressing that collective action can significantly improve the lives of thousands of Ghanaians.

In addition, MTN Ghana has partnered with DOSH Health Insurance to provide a GH¢1 million health insurance support package for patients who have been medically discharged but are unable to pay their hospital bills. The programme, expected to benefit about 100 patients across selected healthcare facilities, will also provide beneficiaries with health insurance coverage for follow-up medical care, ensuring continued access to essential healthcare services.

Source : www. ameyawdebrah.com

Network Resilience Critical as AI Drives Higher Cost of Downtime

As artificial intelligence adoption accelerates across industries, network resilience is becoming a business necessity rather than a technical consideration. AI-powered applications depend on uninterrupted, low-latency connectivity to process data and deliver real-time services. Even brief outages can disrupt critical operations, reduce productivity, and result in significant financial losses, making resilient digital infrastructure a top priority for organizations investing in AI.

According to CSquared, resilient connectivity requires more than simply increasing bandwidth. Businesses need diversified fiber routes, reliable data center connectivity, and disaster recovery capabilities to ensure services remain available during network failures. As enterprises expand their use of AI, cloud computing, and data-intensive applications, robust infrastructure is becoming essential to maintain service continuity and protect customer trust.

CSquared says investments in open-access fiber networks and resilient connectivity will play a crucial role in supporting Africa’s growing digital economy. By strengthening network redundancy and improving regional connectivity, the company aims to help businesses minimize downtime while creating the infrastructure needed to support the next generation of AI-driven innovation and digital transformation across the continent.

Source : www. csquared.com

Africa Projected to Lead Global 5G Growth

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Sub-Saharan Africa is projected to become one of the world’s fastest-growing 5G markets, with subscriptions expected to reach 370 million by 2031, according to the latest Ericsson Mobility Report.

Sub-Saharan Africa is projected to become one of the world’s fastest-growing 5G markets, with subscriptions expected to reach 370 million by 2031, according to the latest Ericsson Mobility Report.

The report says the rapid expansion, driven by the phase-out of legacy networks, will help provide the connectivity foundation needed to support the continent’s emerging AI economy.

Global 5G mobile subscriptions surpassed three billion during the first quarter of 2026. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the transition from legacy networks to advanced connectivity is accelerating.

“The acceleration of 4G and 5G is a defining opportunity for Africa to leapfrog into the AI era. By transitioning away from legacy networks, we are building the foundation for a vibrant, inclusive digital economy,” said Majda Lahlou Kassi, vice president and head of Ericsson West and Southern Africa.

“With the right collaborative investments in spectrum and policy frameworks, Africa is positioned to fully participate in and benefit from the AI boom.”

The report also notes that LTE (4G) subscriptions are forecast to grow from 490 million in 2025 to 610 million by 2031, accounting for 46% of all subscriptions.

Meanwhile, 5G is expected to account for 28% of all mobile subscriptions by the end of 2031.

While Sub-Saharan Africa remains behind more mature markets in 5G adoption, the region is expected to record one of the fastest growth rates globally over the next five years as operators expand coverage and retire older networks.

Markets such as South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya and Ethiopia are expected to account for a significant share of new 5G connections, driven by growing smartphone adoption, network investment and increasing demand for high-speed mobile broadband.

The growth trend is also reflected in the total amount of mobile data used each month in the region is expected to increase significantly—from 2.8 exabytes per month in 2025 to 9.7 exabytes per month by 2031.

An exabyte is a very large unit of digital information equivalent to one billion gigabytes and this forecast indicates rapid growth in mobile data consumption over the coming years

Despite the positive outlook, the GSMA warns that Africa’s smartphone market remains divided between rapid growth and persistent digital exclusion.

While nearly 82% of individuals own a mobile phone, only about 40% own a smartphone. High device costs relative to income, limited network infrastructure in rural areas and low levels of digital literacy continue to restrict mobile internet adoption.

Ericsson said service providers are increasingly prioritising fixed wireless access (FWA) as part of their connectivity strategies.

“FWA is emerging as a key focus area for connecting consumers and enterprises, presenting significant long-term potential to address the region’s demand for reliable broadband.”

Source : www.nigeriacommunicationsweek.com.ng

Ericsson and Yas Tanzania enable advanced digital services with Africa’s first deployment of AIR 3285 radio

Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) and Yas Tanzania have announced the first commercial deployment in Africa of Ericsson’s AIR 3285 radio, supporting a major step forward in network performance and user experience across the country.

The deployment follows a successful trial and forms part of Yas Tanzania’s ongoing network modernization and expansion, supporting its ambition to strengthen digital infrastructure and expand access to high-quality connectivity across the country. Ericsson is supplying the AIR 3285 radios and supporting deployment and integration, helping enhance network capacity and performance. This enables more reliable and higher-quality connectivity for everyday use cases such as e-learning, remote work and live streaming, while improving user experience in high-traffic environments such as large events, and laying the foundation for new digital services that support inclusive growth.

Supporting Tanzania’s digital future, the enhanced 4G capabilities will enable greater digital inclusion by improving access to high-speed connectivity for individuals and businesses, while also supporting the introduction of advanced digital services such as Internet of Things (IoT) and smart city use cases.

Hassan Jaber, Group Chief Executive Officer of Yas, says: “Our partnership with Ericsson on this deployment reflects our continued commitment to enhancing connectivity across Tanzania. This first deployment of the technology in Africa marks an important step in our journey, as we introduce advanced Massive MIMO solutions to strengthen our network and better serve individuals, businesses and communities nationwide.”

Alain Maupin, Vice President and Head of Ericsson East and North Africa at Ericsson Europe, Middle East and Africa, says: “This first deployment of AIR 3285 in Africa is a proud moment for Ericsson and a testament to our technology leadership. We are dedicated to supporting Yas Tanzania’s vision for a fully connected nation. This milestone validates the real-world impact of our Massive MIMO solutions in delivering exceptional performance and accelerating the journey toward a digital-first economy in Tanzania.”

Ericsson’s AIR 3285 is a dual-band Frequency Division Duplexing (FDD) Massive MIMO radio weighing only 31kg, making it the lightest in its class. Its optimized weight and size simplify rollouts in high-capacity sites, helping operators meet growing demand for uplink capacity. It offers up to four times higher uplink capacity and two times higher downlink capacity than traditional 4T/4R solutions, supporting improved network performance and efficiency. This deployment builds on Ericsson and Yas Tanzania’s ongoing efforts to strengthen network capabilities across the country.

Ericsson and Yas Tanzania have a long-standing partnership, including the launch of 5G services in 2022 and the modernization and expansion of the operator’s 4G network. This latest deployment further strengthens that collaboration and reflects continued investment in high-performing mobile networks in Africa

Source : www.ericsson.com