Industry News

Huawei and Jazz, the Pakistani subsidiary of Veon, have deployed solar power systems across 1,000 telecom base station sites in Pakistan, with a combined installed capacity of 13MW.

The rollout utilizes Huawei’s integrated site technology, which combines solar generation, battery storage, and energy management systems to support operations across the network.

The companies said the sites are expected to generate around 11GWh of electricity annually and reduce carbon emissions by approximately 15,000 tonnes per year.

“Expanding solar across our network allows us to reduce our environmental footprint while improving service reliability for our customers,” said Aamir Ibrahim, CEO of Jazz.

Jazz said the deployment is intended to improve network reliability, particularly in areas with limited or unstable power supply. The company added that it plans to continue expanding renewable energy use across its network as part of broader sustainability targets, aligned with Veon’s goal of reaching carbon neutrality by 2050.

The companies originally signed the agreement to deploy the solar arrays back in March of last year. At the time, the companies said that the deployment was expected to serve as a scalable model for future expansion, offering a replicable framework that can be extended.

Jazz is Pakistan’s biggest mobile carrier, with more than 71 million subscribers.

The company, previously known as Mobilink, was founded in 1994 as part of a joint venture between Saif Group and Motorola. In February 2001, Egypt-based Orascom Investment Holding bought Motorola’s shares in Jazz to become the majority shareholder with 69 percent control before eventually acquiring full control of the company a few years later.

Dubai-headquartered Veon acquired the majority of Orascom’s telco assets in 2010, including Jazz, as part of a $6.5 billion deal.

Source : www.datacenterdynamics.com

Orange Maroc and Ericsson emphasized that the agreement will strengthen joint initiatives in innovation and reinforce efforts to build more resilient and future-ready telecom networks across Africa.

Orange Maroc and Ericsson have reaffirmed their strategic partnership with the official signing of an agreement during GITEX Africa 2026.

The agreement was signed by Arnaud Perrin-André and Majda Lahlou Kassi, marking a new phase in collaboration between the two companies focused on advancing telecommunications innovation and digital development across Morocco and the wider African continent.

According to both parties, the partnership is aimed at accelerating digital transformation through enhanced connectivity solutions, improved network capabilities, and the deployment of advanced telecommunications technologies.

The renewed collaboration underscores a shared commitment to supporting Morocco’s digital economy ambitions while also contributing to broader regional efforts to modernize infrastructure and expand access to high-quality digital services.

Orange Maroc and Ericsson emphasized that the agreement will strengthen joint initiatives in innovation and reinforce efforts to build more resilient and future-ready telecom networks across Africa.

Source : www.techafricanews.com

Orange Maroc and Ericsson Strengthen Collaboration on Africa’s Digital Transformation

The Chief Executive Officer of Scancom Ghana PLC (MTN Ghana), Stephen Blewett, has been awarded 21,382 MTN Group shares valued at approximately R4.12 million (US$252,000) as part of the telecommunications giant’s Performance Share Plan 2010, according to a group announcement released on April 7, 2026.

The Chief Financial Officer of MTN Ghana, Antoinette Kwofie, also received 13,660 shares valued at approximately R2.63 million (US$160,000) under the same plan. Both executives serve as directors of the major subsidiary, Scancom Ghana PLC, which operates MTN’s business in Ghana.

The awards, transacted on March 31, 2026, were granted at a market price of R192.50 per share and are subject to performance conditions, vesting over a three-year period from the award date.

Sugentharen Perumal, a director of Scancom Ghana PLC, also received 35,436 shares valued at approximately R6.82 million (US$415,000).

Currency conversion

The awards were granted in South African rand, MTN Group’s reporting currency. Based on the current exchange rate of approximately 16.45 South African rand to the US dollar, the approximate US dollar values of the awards to MTN Ghana executives are as follows:

Recipient                       Position                                        Rand Value    US$ Equivalent

Sugentharen Perumal    Director, Scancom Ghana PLC    R6.82 million    $415,000

Stephen Blewett    Chief Executive Officer, MTN Ghana    R4.12 million    $252,000

Antoinette Kwofie    Chief Financial Officer, MTN Ghana    R2.63 million    $160,000

*Exchange rate: 1 USD = 16.45 ZAR (as of April 8, 2026)*

Group leadership also receives awards

The awards extended to key leadership across MTN’s major African operations. Ralph Mupita, MTN Group President and Chief Executive Officer, received the largest award of 207,633 shares, valued at approximately R39.97 million (US$2.43 million). Tsholofelo Molefe, Group Chief Financial Officer, was awarded 111,931 shares worth approximately R21.55 million (US$1.31 million).

Ebenezer Asante, Senior Vice President for Markets and a prescribed officer of MTN Group, received 120,880 shares valued at approximately R23.27 million (US$1.42 million).

Other senior executives receiving awards include Ferdinand Moolman, MTN South Africa CEO, who was granted 104,545 shares worth R20.13 million (US$1.22 million); Paul Norman, director of Mobile Telephone Networks Proprietary Limited, with 56,333 shares valued at R10.84 million (US$660,000); and Yolanda Cuba, director of the same subsidiary, with 62,718 shares worth R12.07 million (US$734,000).

Minimum shareholding requirements fulfilled

The company confirmed that all award recipients with Minimum Shareholding Requirements obligations have fulfilled their requirements.

The vesting date for the awards has been accelerated to December 10, 2028, aligning with the date on which the awards would normally have been granted—December 10, 2025.

All transactions were classified as off-market awards of shares to employees, with all recipients holding direct beneficial interests.

The announcement was released on the JSE Stock Exchange News Service on April 7, 2026, with Tamela Holdings Proprietary Limited acting as Lead Sponsor and J.P. Morgan Equities Proprietary Limited as Joint Sponsor.

Source : www.graphic.com.gh

Telecel Ghana, through its enterprise arm Telecel Business, has held the third edition of its Women 100 Power Connect, bringing together one hundred influential women from business, governance, academia, technology and entrepreneurship to discuss how reciprocity can strengthen leadership and expand opportunities for women in business

Held as the climax of the company’s month-long Women’s Month activities under the theme “Give to Rise: The Power of Reciprocity,” the gathering forms part of Telecel’s broader Women in Business initiative, which supports women-led enterprises with visibility, business development opportunities and tailored resources for growth.

Telecel Ghana CEO, Ing. Patricia Obo-Nai, set the tone for the evening, saying the gathering was intended to create a space where women in leadership could share lessons across sectors and generations.

“We dedicated the entire month of March to women because meaningful recognition must create opportunity, visibility and action. Throughout the month, we are training 1,000 young girls in coding, hosted a power fireside chat on powering the progress of women and climaxing it with tonight’s conversation on the power of reciprocal leadership,” Ing. Obo-Nai said.

The keynote speaker, Ghana’s former Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Sophia Akuffo (Rtd), urged women in positions of influence to deliberately open pathways for younger women and ensure leadership creates opportunities beyond individual success.

“When you go through the door, hold it open for others. Try as much as possible to push other women so they also get to where you are and even beyond. When the women we support become better than us, then we know we have made it. We must be conscious about the legacy we leave, it should be something lasting, something that reflects who we are and what we have done.”

She described trust as one of the most powerful forms of reciprocity, noting that many women rise because someone chooses to trust their ability before they fully recognise it themselves.

The event also featured candid reflections from a senior psychiatrist and CEO of the Ghana Mental Health Authority, Prof. Pinaman Appau, as well as social entrepreneur and CEO of Song-Ba Empowerment Centre, Rhoda Wedam, who shared perspectives on consistency, mentorship and creating support systems for women navigating professional and informal sectors.

Hosted in Osu, the evening blended conversation and networking with live music and curated networking moments designed to encourage collaboration among participants across sectors.

Women 100 Power Connect remains one of the engagement pillars under Telecel’s Women in Business platform, which was introduced to build a stronger ecosystem for women-led small and medium enterprises through access to business tools, capacity building and enterprise support.

Tawa Bolarin, Telecel Ghana’s Director of Enterprise Business & Wholesale, said Women 100 Power Connect continues to evolve as a space where women leaders can exchange ideas and benefit from networks that can accelerate the growth of their enterprise or trade.

“At Telecel Business, we see strong networks as one of the most valuable growth assets any entrepreneur can have, especially for women building and leading businesses. I would encourage female entrepreneurs and business leaders to visit the Telecel Women in Business website for more information and to become part of the movement, so together we can continue creating pathways for growth, collaboration and impact,” Ms Bolarin said.

Source : www.citinewsroom.com

The launch marked the expansion of a proven national initiative in Nigeria into a continent-wide platform aimed at strengthening the future of African journalism.

In September 2025, MTN Group, in partnership with the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and the African Editors Forum (TAEF), launched the MTN Pan-African Media Innovation Programme (MIP) at MTN Group Headquarters in Johannesburg. The launch marked the expansion of a proven national initiative in Nigeria into a continent-wide platform aimed at strengthening the future of African journalism.

Following this announcement and subsequent programme preparation, applications are now invited for the 2026 MTN Pan-African MIP cohort. Applications close on 30 April 2026.

The MTN Pan-African MIP is a 12-week certified learning journey delivered over 6 months, combining online academic modules with an in-person immersion in Johannesburg. The programme is designed to address the practical and strategic realities facing contemporary journalism, including digital transformation, media sustainability, ethics and law, innovation in newsroom practice, and the impact of platforms and emerging technologies on the information ecosystem.

Fellows will also participate in newsroom immersion, industry masterclasses, study visits, and structured peer engagement that connects academic learning with real-world application.

Beyond formal learning, the programme is intended to build a Pan-African community of practice, enabling sustained collaboration, professional exchange, and cross-border learning among journalists, editors, and media leaders across the continent.

Applications are open to mid- to senior-level journalists, editors and media practitioners from MTN markets. Applicants should demonstrate strong professional experience, a commitment to ethical journalism, and an interest in innovation and cross-border engagement. For eligibility criteria and application guidance, please visit here.

Following the close of applications, candidates will be reviewed and shortlisted independently by UJ and TAEF based on professional merit, potential impact, and their commitment to the evolution of African media.

Nompilo Morafo, MTN Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, says a vibrant, resilient and innovative media ecosystem is essential for Africa’s progress.

“Through the MTN Pan-African Media Innovation Programme, working with UJ and TAEF, we are investing in the future of journalism by equipping media professionals with the skills, networks and tools they need to navigate a rapidly changing information landscape. This initiative reinforces MTN’s commitment to supporting strong, ethical and sustainable media across our markets, and to fostering the voices that shape our continent’s stories.”

– Nompilo Morafo, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, MTN Group 

Professor Sifiso Mnisi, UJ’s Director for Centre for Data and Digital Communications, said the future of African journalism depends on the continuous development of critical thinking, ethical leadership and innovative newsroom practice.

“Our partnership with MTN and TAEF allows us to equip media professionals with the academic grounding and practical exposure needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving information environment. We are proud to contribute to a programme that strengthens media excellence across the continent.”

– Professor Sifiso Mnisi, Director for Centre for Data and Digital Communications, UJ

“For Africa to deepen democracy and social cohesion, we need newsrooms that are strong, independent and capable of adapting to fast‑changing media dynamics. The Pan-African Media Innovation Programme provides a vital platform for journalists and editors to sharpen their skills, collaborate across borders, and innovate in the interests of the public.”

– Churchill Otieno, President, TAEF

Source : www. techafricanews.com

Penplusbytes commends the swift and proactive efforts of the Ghana Police Service, particularly its Cybercrime Unit, for taking decisive action against individuals involved in the creation and dissemination of deepfake content and other forms of misinformation.
The recent arrests linked to the impersonation of high-profile personalities, including President John Dramani Mahama, the First Lady Lordina Mahama, and other public figures, underscore the growing sophistication and danger of AI-enabled deception. These malicious activities not only erode public trust in information ecosystems but also expose citizens to fraud, manipulation, and reputational harm.
This development is especially concerning within the broader context of Ghana’s recent electoral cycle. During and after the 2024 general elections, there has been a noticeable rise in manipulated and synthetic media content, including deepfakes, used to mislead the public, distort political narratives, and inflame tensions. This trend highlights the urgent need for sustained and coordinated interventions to safeguard Ghana’s information integrity.
Penplusbytes being at the forefront of promoting Media and Information Literacy (MIL), digital security, and countering mis/disinformation, we welcome this enforcement action and call for a holistic approach to addressing the evolving threat landscape.
While we applaud the actions of the Ghana Police Service, we also wish to put forward the following recommendations:
Intensify Public Education on Deepfakes and Digital Manipulation
The proliferation of deepfakes during and after the 2024 elections demonstrated how easily manipulated content can influence public perception and decision-making. There is an urgent need for sustained, nationwide public education campaigns to raise awareness about AI-generated content, how it is created, and how citizens can detect and respond to it responsibly.
Scale Up Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Through Strategic Partnerships
Government, through its ministries and agencies, must scale up investments in MIL to equip citizens with skills to navigate the digital information ecosystem responsibly. Over the years, Penplusbytes has implemented a range of MIL initiatives aimed at equipping Ghanaians, particularly young people, with critical thinking, verification, and digital safety skills. These efforts have contributed to building resilience against mis/disinformation. However, the scale and complexity of today’s information disorder require expanded investment and coordination. There is an urgent need for government, development partners, and private sector actors to collaborate with civil society organizations like Penplusbytes to scale up MIL interventions nationwide. Embedding MIL within formal education systems and community-based programs will be critical to building long-term societal resilience.
Strengthen Legal and Regulatory Frameworks on Misinformation and Disinformation
Legislation forms a critical component of the broader measures required to effectively address misinformation and disinformation. In this regard, Penplusbytes in 2025 conducted a comprehensive review of Ghana’s existing legal and policy frameworks. Our findings reveal notable gaps in addressing emerging threats such as AI-generated content, as well as challenges stemming from vague definitions and the potential misapplication of current laws. These limitations risk undermining both enforcement efforts and the protection of fundamental rights.
We therefore urge policymakers to adopt the recommendations from these reviews, including the development of a comprehensive, fit-for-purpose legal framework that reflects current technological realities. Such reforms should ensure clear and precise definitions, proportional and accountable enforcement mechanisms, and strong safeguards against abuse, while upholding fundamental freedoms such as freedom of expression.
Promote Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration
Effectively combating misinformation and deepfakes requires coordinated action across sectors. We encourage stronger collaboration between law enforcement agencies, electoral bodies, technology platforms, media organizations, academia, and civil society to develop shared strategies and rapid response mechanisms.
Enhance Capacity and Resourcing for Law Enforcement
Additionally, Penplusbytes encourages continued investment in the technical capacity and resourcing of the Cybercrime Unit of the Ghana Police Service. As digital threats evolve, equipping law enforcement with advanced tools, training, and expertise will be essential for timely detection, investigation, and prosecution.
Hold Technology Platforms Accountable for Deepfake and Harmful Content
Social media and digital platforms serve as primary vectors for the amplification of deepfakes and synthetic disinformation. Penplusbytes calls on technology companies operating in Ghana and across the West Africa sub-region to implement robust content moderation policies, invest in AI-detection tools, and establish transparent reporting mechanisms for deepfake content. Platforms must take proactive steps to label AI-generated content, swiftly remove verified deepfakes, and cooperate with national authorities in investigations. Ghana’s regulatory bodies, including the National Communications Authority (NCA) and Cyber Security Authority (CSA) should develop clear platform accountability frameworks and enforce compliance standards that reflect the gravity of AI-enabled information manipulation.
Penplusbytes remains committed to working with all stakeholders to strengthen Ghana’s information ecosystem and promote a digitally safe and informed society. Through Penplusbytes’ initiatives such as the Fact-Checking Marketplace, as well as MIL interventions, Penplusbytes continues to provide citizens and institutions with practical tools to identify, verify, and counter disinformation. We urge citizens to remain vigilant, verify information before sharing, and report suspicious content to the appropriate authorities.

Source : www.myjoyonline.com

Huawei Cloud is driving Thailand’s digital transformation by enabling the large-scale deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) across key government agencies, demonstrating how cloud and AI technologies can deliver tangible improvements in public services, regulatory efficiency, and economic development.

At a recent Huawei Cloud AI Boost Day – Thailand 2026, leading public sector organizations including the National Electronics and Computer Technology Center (NECTEC), the Thai Food and Drug Administration (Thai FDA), and the Ministry of Commerce shared real-world success stories of deploying AI on Huawei Cloud to address complex operational challenges and unlock new value.

As a leading research institution, NECTEC highlighted its long-standing expertise in AI and Thai language processing, developed over more than two decades. By leveraging Huawei Cloud, NECTEC has successfully transformed its research into practical applications through solutions such as “PartiNote,” an AI-powered platform for speech recognition and meeting intelligence.

The solution enables real-time transcription, automated summarization, and searchable audio insights, significantly reducing the time required to process meetings and improving knowledge management across organizations. With high accuracy and the ability to scale on cloud infrastructure, PartiNote demonstrates how locally developed AI can be deployed effectively in real-world government environments.

NECTEC has been advancing Thai language AI for over two decades. Today, through Huawei Cloud, we are transforming this research into real-world applications. Solutions like PartiNote not only enhance meeting efficiency but also turn voice data into actionable knowledge at both organizational and national levels,” Dr. Kwanchiva Thangthai, a researcher at NECTEC, said.

Transforming Healthcare Regulation with AI

The Thai FDA showcased how AI is being applied in mission-critical regulatory processes to improve both efficiency and public safety. Faced with over one million product registration applications annually, the agency has implemented AI to automate document analysis, screening, and summarization.

By deploying AI on Huawei Cloud, the Thai FDA has increased operational efficiency by up to three times while expanding processing capacity significantly. The system enables 24/7 operations with high reliability, allowing faster approvals without compromising safety standards, said Mr. Sutham Tesrumphun, Deputy Director of Information Technology Center at Thai FDA.

Beyond internal operations, AI also supports businesses by helping them prepare more accurate submissions and enhances consumer protection through future capabilities such as real-time monitoring and product verification.

“By integrating AI into our regulatory processes, the FDA can significantly reduce approval timelines while maintaining the highest safety standards. Huawei Cloud provides the critical infrastructure needed to manage large-scale data and operate AI systems efficiently around the clock,” Mr. Sutham added.

Empowering Data-Driven Governance

The Ministry of Commerce demonstrated how AI and cloud technologies are being used to modernize public services and support economic growth. Through its “MOC Go” platform, the ministry integrates data from 76 provincial offices and 58 overseas offices, enabling real-time visibility into economic activities and trade opportunities.

Mrs. Duanphen Krongmalai, Director of Information and Communication Technology at Ministry of Commerce, said AI-powered capabilities, including social listening and generative AI chatbots, allow the ministry to analyze market trends, respond to public feedback, and support decision-making with greater speed and accuracy. By breaking down data silos and enabling system integration on Huawei Cloud, the platform enhances coordination across agencies and improves services for businesses and citizens alike.

“The Ministry of Commerce is leveraging AI and Huawei Cloud to connect data from both domestic and international sources through the MOC Go platform. This enables better policy decision-making and enhanced services for businesses and citizens. We believe AI will be a key driver of Thailand’s digital economy moving forward,” she said.

Across all three organizations, Huawei Cloud plays a critical role in enabling AI deployment at scale. Its infrastructure supports large-scale data processing, ensures high security and data sovereignty, and provides the reliability required for mission-critical government systems.

From AI model development and deployment to real-time analytics and intelligent applications, Huawei Cloud empowers public sector organizations to move beyond experimentation and achieve measurable outcomes.

Driving Thailand’s Digital Future with AI

These success stories reflect a broader shift in Thailand’s public sector—from traditional operations to AI-driven, data-centric governance. By adopting Huawei Cloud, government agencies are not only improving efficiency and service delivery but also laying the foundation for a more intelligent, responsive, and competitive digital economy.

As AI adoption continues to expand, collaboration between government agencies, technology providers, and research institutions will be key to unlocking the full potential of Thailand’s digital transformation.

About Huawei Cloud Thailand

Huawei Cloud Thailand is a leading cloud service provider committed to accelerating Thailand’s digital transformation under the mission of “In Thailand, For Thailand.” According to the latest report from Gartner, Huawei Cloud is ranked No.2 by revenue in Thailand’s Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) market, solidifying its position as one of the most trusted and fastest-growing international cloud providers in the country.

As the first international public cloud vendor to establish local data centres in Thailand, Huawei Cloud now operates three Availability Zones, ensuring high reliability and low-latency connectivity for local users. Leveraging Huawei’s 30-plus years of expertise in ICT infrastructure, it integrates cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud-Native 2.0, and Big Data technologies to empower over 40 government agencies and thousands of enterprises across the Kingdom. By building a robust digital ecosystem and fostering local talent, Huawei Cloud aims to drive Thailand’s “Digital Economy” forward, bringing cloud and intelligence to every corner of the country for a fully connected, intelligent future.

Source : www.koreaherald.com

MTN CEO Ralph Mupita has been awarded R39.97 million worth of shares in the company, while other executives received R120 million worth between them. 

This was revealed by MTN late on Tuesday in an announcement on the JSE’s stock exchange news service. 

The company explained that the award of these shares to various executives was done under its Performance Share Plan 2010. 

MTN’s executives were awarded and accepted shares under this plan on 31 March 2026. 

“These are subject to performance conditions, in accordance with the MTN Performance Share Plan,” MTN said.

MTN explained in its previous company reporting that its long-term incentive scheme ties executive rewards to the company’s performance over a three-year period. 

The company’s board evaluates the performance of its executives using four criteria – total shareholder return, cumulative operating free cash flow, return on equity, and ESG. 

The company said that all award recipients with minimum shareholding requirements have fulfilled their obligations.

“The vesting date has been accelerated to 10 December 2028, aligning with the date on which the award would normally have been granted, being 10 December 2025,” MTN said.

The awarding and acceptance of these shares comes after MTN unveiled a strong set of results for the 2025 financial year on 16 March 2026. 

MTN’s profit surged to R20.3 billion after it did not experience a repeat of currency devaluations that dented some of its businesses across 18 markets, especially in Nigeria. 

However, it has not been all good news for the company of late, with it being unable to sell its 49% stake in its Iranian venture, Irancell, due to US sanctions against the Middle Eastern nation. 

The carrier has maintained the non-controlling shareholding in Irancell since 2006 after signing a deal with the theocracy underpinned by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. 

MTN has not been able to extract profit or invest in the operation for almost eight years because of the sanctions. 

“The investment in Irancell is subject to a number of sovereign, regulatory and commercial risks, which could result in the group failing to realise the full market value of its investment should it be required to dispose of any portion thereof,” the company said in its 2025 results statement. 

What was once a lucrative foothold in a large emerging market has become one of the most troublesome operations for current CEO Mupita.

Executive	Position	Total value of shares received
Ralph Mupita	Group President & CEO	R39,969,275
Ebenezer Asante	Senior Vice President, Markets	R23,269,457
Tsholofelo Molefe	Group Chief Financial Officer	R21,546,714
Ferdinand J Moolman	MTN SA CEO	R20,125,000
Yolanda Cuba	Director of Major Subsidiary	R12,073,220
Paul Norman	Director of Major Subsidiary	R10,843,944
Dineo Molefe	Director of Major Subsidiary	R6,845,197
Sugentharen Perumal	Director of Major Subsidiary	R6,821,370
Karl Olutokun Toriola	MTN Nigeria CEO	R5,525,460
Stephen Blewett	CEO: MTN Ghana	R4,115,998
Antoinette Kwofie	CFO: MTN Ghana	R2,629,636
Lucy Mokoka	Group Company Secretary	R2,311,583
Modupe Kadri	Director of Major Subsidiary	R2,282,020
Mateboho Rantofi	Company Secretary of Subsidiary	R1,916,047

Source: www. dailyinvestor.com

Leading mobile telecommunications company, MTN Ghana, has presented a cheque and items worth GH¢200,000 to the National Chief Imam in support of his continuous activities.

The donation was made during a visit to the Chief Imam which is an annual engagement and  the company’s efforts to strengthen its relationship with the Imam and to support them during the festive period.

The Chief Digital Officer of MTN Ghana, Ibrahim Misto, who led the delegation, said the gesture was to appreciate the continuous support and guidance of the Muslim community and its leadership.

He added that MTN would remain available throughout the holidays to provide customer support, education and awareness, particularly on mobile money services.

The items donated included a GH¢30,000 cheque, bags of rice, cooking oil, milk, Milo, sugar, tea bags, drinks, water and a sheep.

Mr Misto said the company would deploy teams at selected vantage points during the Eid period to engage customers, resolve service challenges and educate the public on mobile money fraud.

He explained that the initiative was aimed at ensuring customers enjoyed a safe and seamless festive season without falling victim to fraudulent activities.

He further indicated that MTN would roll out similar initiatives during other key periods, such as the Hajj season, with promotions and tailored packages for customers.

Mr Misto said the company remained grateful to the Muslim community for its loyalty and support over the years.

The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Usmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, expressed appreciation to MTN Ghana for the gesture and offered prayers for the company.

He said the visit had come at a significant time, as Muslims were in the last 10 days of Ramadan.

“Whatever you have asked for, may Allah grant it for you. May Allah elevate you, increase you in His abundance and grant you strength to continue your work,” he said.

He also prayed for peace and harmony in the country, emphasising the importance of unity among different religious groups.

“Here in Ghana, Muslims and Christians are able to sit together and work in unity.

This is something we must continue to uphold,” he stated.

Mobile money fraud concerns

The Senior Commercial Manager of Mobile Money Limited, Abdul-Mageed Rufai, attributed most mobile money fraud cases to social engineering tactics rather than system breaches.

He explained that fraudsters often deceive customers into disclosing sensitive information such as PINs under the guise of promotions or erroneous transfers.

“To date, nobody can say money has vanished from their wallet without their involvement. Fraudsters rely on tricking customers,” he said.

He advised customers not to disclose their mobile money PINs, avoid engaging with suspicious callers and refrain from allowing others to conduct transactions on their behalf.

Mr Rufai added that MTN had introduced a shortcode, 419, for reporting fraud and was intensifying public education through its “Shine Your Eye” campaign across communities.

On the planned SIM re-registration exercise, Mr Rufai described the initiative as a step in the right direction to strengthen the system and curb fraud.

He expressed confidence that improved and innovative processes would be adopted to avoid the challenges experienced during the previous exercise, assuring customers of a more convenient experience.

Source : www.graphic.com.gh

Telecel Ghana has extended its financial literacy and mobile commerce training to Deaf entrepreneurs, as the telecom operator strengthens efforts to ensure digital inclusion and economic participation for under-served communities across Ghana.

The workshop, held at the head office of the Ghana National Association of the Deaf (GNAD) in Accra, delivered entrepreneurship and personal finance training to 97 Deaf and hard-of-hearing traders and artisans, combining business education with merchant onboarding through its mobile financial platform, Telecel Cash.

Participants were taken through sustainable business management principles and financial tech education, after which they were registered for merchant services intended to help them accept digital payments and manage transactions more efficiently.

David Mborkor, the Greater Accra Regional President of GNAD, urged participants to seize the training opportunity to transform their businesses and economic prospects. He also commended Telecel for its commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of its members.

“Telecel is determined to ensure that Deaf-owned businesses are not left behind in the digital transition,” said Mercy Dawn Akude, General Manager of Commercial Operations at Telecel Ghana. “We believe our tailored accessibility support for Deaf entrepreneurs will translate into their stronger participation in Ghana’s digital economy.”

The programme forms part of Telecel’s commitment to inclusion in its service delivery. Since the launch of Telecel SuperCare in 2016, Telecel has provided specialised support for the Deaf community through affordable data packages, accessible communication channels and products designed around accessibility needs.

Under the initiative, Deaf and hard-of-hearing customers can dial *494# to connect with customer service agents, mostly Deaf and sign language professionals, through video and WhatsApp calls.

One of the participants of the training, Owusuaa, a trader in baby diapers and groceries, expressed her sincere appreciation to Telecel Ghana and the facilitators for guiding them through the five key principles for business growth. She also commended Telecel for providing free merchant SIMs and setting up their business accounts, noting that accessing them on their own would have been a significant challenge, given the many constraints Deaf entrepreneurs already face.

The latest workshop builds on a series of inclusion-focused interventions by Telecel Ghana over the past years, including advocacy for wider sign language access in public institutions and digital skills training for Deaf students.

During the 2025 International Week of the Deaf in Saltpond, Central Region, Telecel called for sign language studies to be mainstreamed in schools and public service delivery, arguing that sign language exclusion continues to limit access to healthcare, education and employment for Deaf people across Ghana.

Telecel Ghana also participated in a media advocacy forum last year that called for a national policy to institutionalise sign language interpretation in public information delivery and wider subtitling of television broadcasts.

Through the Telecel Foundation, Deaf students are trained in STEM every year on International Day of Persons with Disabilities to enable them to explore basic artificial intelligence concepts. Telecel Ghana said such initiatives reflect a broader, intentional strategy to integrate accessibility into its business and digital transformation agenda.

According to Ghana’s 2021 Population and Housing Census, more than 211,000 people in the country are Deaf or hard of hearing, while over 470,000 live with varying degrees of hearing loss.