(A milestone decision to accelerate Ghana’s digital transformation and reduce fibre cuts nationwide)
Ghana’s Cabinet has approved a transformative proposal from the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications to integrate fibre-optic ducts and access chambers into all new road construction projects across the country.
The announcement was made by the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, during a high-level discussion at the Africa Tech Festival in Cape Town, South Africa. The move positions Ghana as a continental leader in infrastructure-led digitalisation and sets a precedent for other African nations to follow.
“What Ghana’s Cabinet has approved is this, every new road is also going to be a digital new road,” the Minister stated. “Contractors will now build fibre chambers alongside roads, effectively eliminating the capital cost of digging for telecom operators. This will make network rollout faster, cheaper, and more sustainable, thereby allowing operators to reinvest in expanding connectivity.”
The policy, often referred to as the “Dig Once Policy”, stems from sustained advocacy by the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications and its member companies. The Chamber’s technical justification highlighted that about 60% of fibre cuts in Ghana, a major cause of service interruptions, are caused by road and construction activities. Between 2021 and the first three (3) quarters of 2025, fibre repair costs is projected to be $69.3 million, representing a significant drain on industry resources and national productivity.
By mandating the inclusion of fibre ducts in new roads, Ghana is expected to:
Reduce fibre cuts and network downtimes significantly
Lower broadband deployment costs
Accelerate 5G and digital infrastructure rollout across the country
Protect road assets and prevent repeated excavation, and
Foster innovation and inclusion through reliable, affordable internet access
This milestone decision aligns with the goals of Ghana’s Digital Economy Policy (2024) and National Broadband Strategy, advancing the vision of a digitally enabled economy that supports growth, inclusivity, and innovation.
The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, on behalf of its member companies and the wider digital ecosystem, has commended the Government for this forward-looking decision. The Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to work closely with the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, the Ministry of Roads and Highways, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless implementation.
“This is a bold and visionary step that will shape Ghana’s digital future,” said Sylvia Owusu-Ankomah, CEO of the Digital Chamber of Ghana. “By embedding fibre in all new roads, we are laying the foundation for a connected nation, one that leverages digital infrastructure to drive growth, innovation, and opportunity.”
The initiative reinforces Ghana’s position as one of Africa’s emerging digital leaders and offers a scalable model for other African countries aiming to build resilient, inclusive, and future-ready digital economies.
The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications (GCT) and the Digital Chamber of Ghana (DCG) announce the appointment of Sylvia Owusu-Ankomah as their new Chief Executive Officer effective 1st October 2025.
With close to two decades of progressive leadership experience spanning Ghana’s telecommunications, digital, and FMCG sectors, Sylvia combines deep industry knowledge with a proven ability to build partnerships and deliver results which she brings on board in her new roles. Her inspiring career spans high-impact positions at leading multinational organizations, including MTN Ghana, Tigo (Millicom Ghana), AirtelTigo (AT Ghana), and Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC (Diageo/Castel Group).
Throughout her telecoms career, Sylvia has been at the forefront of transformational projects shaping Ghana’s telecom and digital landscape. She played a pivotal role in securing regulatory approvals for Ghana’s first landmark telecom merger, spearheaded high-stakes public policy advocacy, and championed initiatives that expanded connectivity, enhanced regulatory compliance, and strengthened industry-government relations. At MTN Ghana, she was instrumental in securing the 3G License and Submarine Cable Landing rights, both of which helped establish MTN as Ghana’s market leader in data services.
At AirtelTigo, Sylvia provided executive leadership during one of Ghana’s most complex mergers, navigating regulatory landscapes, stakeholder management, and post-merger government relations. She also supported the acquisition of its EMI License from the Bank of Ghana and served as a former Council Member of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, giving her deep insight into the Chamber’s mission and governance.
In addition to her executive roles, Sylvia has served as Board of Trustee Member of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) under the Ministry of Communications, where she contributed to strategies for digital inclusion and the expansion of connectivity to underserved communities. Sylvia also served as a Former Advisory Board Member of the Ghana Innovation Hub, supporting initiatives aimed at fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and the growth of Ghana’s digital economy.
Most recently, Sylvia served as Director of Corporate Relations at Guinness Ghana, where she led public policy advocacy, sustainability, strategic communications and reputation management, achieving significant wins. These included safeguarding their license to operate, driving local sourcing, and leading their business sustainability agenda in Ghana.
Commenting on her appointment, Stephen Blewett, Chair of the Governing Council and CEO of MTN Ghana, said:
“Sylvia’s appointment represents an exciting new chapter for the Chamber. Her deep roots in the telecom sector, coupled with her proven ability to unite stakeholders and deliver tangible results, position her perfectly to lead the industry Chamber into its next phase of digital growth and innovation.”
Today’s announcement follows the successful conclusion of Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey’s tenure on June, 2025, after nearly eight years of service. The Council expresses its gratitude for his leadership and contributions, which helped establish strong advocacy platforms for the sector and laid the groundwork for the Digital Chamber.
Expressing her vision for the role, Sylvia stated:
“I am humbled to lead the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications and the Digital Chamber of Ghana at such a defining time for Ghana’s digital journey. My mandate is clear – strengthening collaboration across government, industry and consumers. Together with our members, we will advocate for policies that enable inclusive and sustainable industry growth, safeguard critical telecommunication infrastructure, empower innovation, and ensure Ghana remains at the forefront of Africa’s digital renaissance.”
Sylvia holds an MBA in Management from Coventry University (UK), a Public Policy Analysis certification from the London School of Economics, and a Leading Sustainable Corporations certification from the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School.
Sylvia Owusu-Ankomah’s appointment underscores the two Chambers commitment to visionary leadership that serves industry, government, and Ghanaians as a whole. As she steps into this new chapter, the two Chambers wish her great success and commit to support her every step of the way.
About the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications: The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications is the foremost industry association representing the interests of telecommunication operators and infrastructure companies in Ghana. The Chamber is deeply dedicated to promoting and advancing the growth of the telecommunications industry, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services to consumers, and supporting the country’s socio-economic development.
The Chamber represents AT Ghana (formerly AirtelTigo), MTN Ghana, Telecel Ghana and associate members across infrastructure and technology, including ATC Ghana, CSquared, Ericsson, Helios Towers Ghana, Huawei, and Spectrum Fibre Limited.
About the Digital Chamber of Ghana: The Digital Chamber of Ghana is the unified voice for Ghana’s digital finance ecosystem.
The Chamber brings together the country’s electronic-money issuers and fintech partners – including AT Money, G-Money, Mobile Money Limited (MTN), Telecel Cash, Zeepay among others – to foster innovation, enhance regulatory collaboration, and promote financial inclusion.
The EMIs Chamber of Ghana, the leading advocacy body for digital financial ecosystem, extends its warmest congratulations to Dr. Johnson Asiamah on his nomination as the next Governor of the Bank of Ghana. His extensive experience in monetary policy, financial stability, and economic research makes him well-positioned to steer Ghana’s financial sector towards greater innovation and inclusion.
As we look forward to Dr. Asiamah’s tenure, the Chamber remains committed to working closely with the Bank of Ghana to further strengthen Ghana’s digital financial ecosystem, ensuring continued innovation, consumer protection, and financial inclusion for all Ghanaians.
As captured in the release announcing his nomination, Dr. Asiamah’s nomination follows the acceptance of a formal request by the current Governor, Dr. Ernest Addison, to proceed on leave ahead of his retirement on March 31, 2025.
With over 23 years of experience at the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Asiamah brings a wealth of expertise in monetary policy, financial stability regulation, and economic research. He previously served as Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana from 2016 to 2017 and holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Southampton, UK.
We also take this opportunity to commend Dr. Ernest Addison, the outgoing Governor, for his invaluable contributions to the country’s digital financial ecosystem. Under his leadership, the Bank of Ghana championed progressive regulatory frameworks that have significantly advanced financial inclusion and the growth of electronic money institutions.
Congratulations once again to Dr. Johnson Asiamah, and best wishes to Dr. Ernest Addison on his next chapter.
CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO THE PRESIDENT-ELECT OF THE REPUBLIC OF GHANA, JOHN DRAMANI MAHAMA
Accra, Ghana – December 10, 2024: On behalf of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications and the EMIs Chamber of Ghana, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency John Dramani Mahama on his election as President of the Republic of Ghana.
The re-election of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama signifies a pivotal moment for Ghana as the nation continues to strengthen its democratic institutions and advance its socio-economic development. As key stakeholders in Ghana’s telecommunications and electronic payments industries, we commend his steadfast commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and technological advancement. His leadership is crucial in our mission to drive digital transformation in Ghana. We anticipate working with your government on your manifesto initiatives, including those captured under Digital Economy, Communication, and Innovation.
We intensely appreciate your Excellency for honouring the invitation of our two Chambers to deliberate on our manifestos and explore ways to build our industries. Your commitment to our mission is deeply appreciated.
Let us also use this opportunity to commend the Vice President of Ghana, His Excellency Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, for prioritizing the nation’s interests by graciously accepting the election results and congratulating the President-elect, reinforcing Ghana’s strong democratic values. Additionally, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to the people of Ghana for ensuring the elections were conducted peacefully and orderly.
To the President-elect, we are optimistic about the future of our collaboration with your administration to enhance further Ghana’s position as a leader in digital inclusion, financial technology, and connectivity across Africa. Together, we will work to ensure that our collective efforts foster economic growth, create opportunities for Ghanaians, and build a sustainable digital ecosystem for future generations.
Long Live Ghana! Long Live Innovation and Progress!
Signed
Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey
CEO – Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications
CEO – EMIs Chamber of Ghana
About the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications & EMIs Chamber of Ghana
The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications is the foremost industry association representing the interests of telecommunication operators and infrastructure companies in Ghana. The Chamber is deeply dedicated to promoting and advancing the growth of the telecommunications industry, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services to consumers, and supporting the country’s socio-economic development.
The EMIs Chamber of Ghana is the unified voice for Ghana’s digital finance ecosystem. We proudly represent the leading digital finance entities AT Money, G-Money, Mobile Money Limited, Telecel Cash, and Zeepay Mobile Money. We are unwavering in our commitment to fostering innovation, enhancing regulatory collaboration, and supporting the growth and sustainability of the digital finance sector in Ghana. We aim to create a thriving and inclusive financial landscape that benefits all Ghanaians through advocacy and research.
The total contribution of the telecommunications industry by way of taxes, fees, levies, and other payments to government in 2023, has risen by more than 30%. The industry’s overall taxes and other payments to the government in 2023 rose to GHS 9.84 billion, up from GHS 7.32 billion in 2022.
This was made known by the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications (GCT) and the EMIs Chamber of Ghana, Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey during the launch of the 2023 Mobile Industry Transparency Initiative Report in Accra. The event was well attended by representatives of members of both Chambers, members of the media, and external validators including Mr. William Demitia, a law lecturer at the University of Ghana and Mr. Gordon Dardey, Partner at KPMG.
The annual report, based on data from members of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications including AT, MTN, Vodafone, ATC, Helios, Comsys, CSquared, Ericsson, and Huawei, and members of the EMIs Chamber of Ghana including AT Money, G-Money, Mobile Money Limited, Telecel Cash and Zeepay, aims to illustrate the industry’s societal and economic contributions to the country’s development.
During his presentation, Dr. Ing. Kenneth Ashigbey, revealed that the industry’s tax contribution and other payments span various categories, including Corporate Income Tax (CIT), Value Added Tax (VAT), Communication Service Tax (CST), Import Duties and the E-levy, among others. The CIT alone contributed GHS 1.71 billion, while VAT and CST amounted to GHS 1.42 billion and GHS 636.83 million respectively. Additionally, import duties and other remittances formed a substantial part of the total tax payments.
This extensive contribution according to Dr. Ashigbey underscores the industry’s commitment to Ghana’s economic progress. Beyond taxes, the telecom sector is pivotal in driving socio-economic development. With approximately 35 million mobile connections in Ghana, mobile penetration boosts jobs, productivity, and financial inclusion. Mobile money, for instance, has made financial services accessible to the unbanked, particularly benefitting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
The report also highlighted the industry’s contributions to employment, with over 5,800 direct and indirect jobs (not counting the jobs created for mobile money agents and others). The industry also demonstrated a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility, investing millions into social initiatives across the country.
These contributions showcase the ongoing efforts of the telecom industry to align with government revenue goals, support national development, and bridge the digital divide in Ghana.
Methodology
The study employed the Total Contribution methodology, encompassing both tax and non-tax contributions made by GCT members as well as members of the EMIs Chamber to government.
Tax contribution breakdown
Corporate Income Tax (CIT) jumps from GHS 1.35 bn to 1.71bn
The breakdown of tax contributions included Corporate Income Tax (CIT), increased from million to GHS 1.35 billion in 2022 to GHS 1.71 billion, accounting for a significant rise of approximately 26.62%
VAT grows from GHS 930 m toGHS 1.42 bn
Value Added Tax (VAT) surged from GHS 930 million to GHS 1.42 billion, marking it as the second most significant tax category for the industry after Corporate Income Tax (CIT). The report shared by the Chamber demonstrated a notable increase of 52.04 % in VAT in 2023.
Withholding Tax jump to GHS 849.5 bn in 2023
Withholding Tax (WHT) continued to grow in 2023 like it did in 2022. WHT rose from GHS 699.25 million in 2022 to approximately GHS 849.52 in 2023, indicating an increase of about 21%. The continued rise can be attributed to escalating business costs and increased spending, impacting the overall industry value chain.
Communications Service Tax (CST)
Proceeds from the Communications Service Tax (CST) rose by 25% in 2023, from a figure of GHS 509.46 million in 2022 to GHS 636.83 million in 2023. This industry specific tax continues to put a damper on the potential volume growth and affects the affordability of data and voice for the Ghanaian subscriber. We would continue to propose that the rate of CST should be reduced in the near term or scrapped entirely.
GHS 2.01bn in other remittances
The report further highlighted that; other remittances collectively contributed GHS 2.01 billion in 2023. Other Remittances jumped because of surcharge on international inbound call termination (SIIT). Though in USD terms the amount it increased by just 1%, in cedi terms it increased significantly by more.
Import Duties rise from GHS 330.9 m in 2022 to GHS 609.7 in 2023
Import duty collections in 2023 stood at GHS 609.68 million. This rise can be attributed to among other things the significant depreciation of the Ghana Cedi against its major trading partners in 2023. As highlighted in the previous edition of this report, there’s a pressing need to focus efforts on developing and implementing local solutions that alleviate pressure on the local currency. Additionally, we propose that government considers waiving some import duties and taxes on some critical telecommunications equipment that are very important for the country’s development. This should also include components for the provision of solar energy other than the panels that are currently exempt.
Pay as You Earn
The report’s analysis revealed a significant growth in the Pay as You Earn (PAYE) tax line, inching up from GHS 167.2 million in 2022 to GHS 234.01 million in 2023 marking a 39.95% increase. This demonstrates not only the growth in payments made to our direct employees but also the numbers employed within an environment where unemployment is a critical national challenge. This is one of the reasons why the government should consider easing the fiscal burden on the industry to enable it further expand its employment capacity.
E-Levy increases by 93.8%
Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) collected in 2023 stood at GHS 938.87 million, a rise of about 94% from the GHS 484.5% paid by the industry in 2022. The reduction in the E-Levy rate has resulted in some recovery in the volumes and values. But there is the need for further revision in this policy to align it to government’s digital by default strategy.
An Industry Poised for Growth with Tax Reforms
Beyond the numbers highlighted above, the telecom industry has positioned itself as the horse pulling the economic cart up the hill, making invaluable contributions to the digital transformation and connectivity needs of Ghana.
As a driver of economic progress, the telecom industry holds the potential to bring more people into the formal economy, particularly in the informal sector, which is traditionally outside the tax net. Through innovations in mobile money, data services, and digital platforms, telecom companies can facilitate the tracking of transactions and financial flows within the informal sector, creating an opportunity for the government to expand its tax base. By working closely with the telecom industry, the government can develop policies and systems that encourage the registration and taxation of informal businesses, thereby boosting national revenue. This partnership can create a win-win situation, where the informal sector benefits from access to digital financial tools and the government increases its revenue from a broader tax base.
Additionally, the government can play its part in supporting the telecom industry by reconsidering the current taxes (especially industry specific ones) and rates. A more extensive tax base with fair rates could ultimately foster a more sustainable and inclusive economy, as businesses of all sizes would feel more inclined to operate within the formal economy, knowing that their contributions are fairly assessed.
In summary, the telecom industry’s growth is not just about revenue; it is about creating a more inclusive, connected, and robust economy. By enabling greater formalization within the informal sector and fostering digital access, the industry empowers individuals and businesses to participate more actively in the economy. With the government’s support in refining tax policies to encourage compliance and reduce the burden on citizens, Ghana can leverage this synergy to accelerate growth and drive sustainable development across the nation.
Note: All 2022 figures have been revised to reflect the final confirmed figures from members of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications and the EMIs Chamber of Ghana.
