Improve quality of service or face sanctions – Communications Minister to Telcos

Samuel George, the Minister of Communication, Digitalisation Technology and Innovation, has called on three telecommunications companies to improve their service quality. He warned that failure to do so could lead to sanctions as outlined by the Ministry.

The government plans to share 40% to 50% of any fines with customers. This compensation will come in the form of data or call time on their networks.

Mr. George made these statements during a meeting in Accra. The meeting included Chief Executives from MTN Ghana, AirtelTigo, and Telecel.

This discussion followed a survey by the National Communications Authority. The survey assessed customer satisfaction across 48 localities in the first quarter of the year.

The report showed that many customers were unhappy with service quality from telcos.

Mr. George mentioned ongoing negotiations with a strategic partner for AirtelTigo's improvement. These discussions have a 60-day timeline for completion.

He hopes to see improved services rolled out by the end of the third quarter.

Additionally, Mr. George announced cabinet approval for spectrum allocation to Telecel and MTN. This is intended to enhance their service quality for customers.

He expects spectrum utilization to begin by September 2025, with significant improvements by December 2025.

Regarding data pricing, a committee was formed in February to create a roadmap for reductions before December 2025.

Mr. George emphasized that this process would be gradual to avoid industry shocks affecting investments.

He expressed hope for improvements in price, value, and quality among all three telcos.

In early July, he plans to update the public on value-for-money issues related to telcos. An announcement will detail increased value across all bundle offerings for Ghanaians.

The government aims to reset the sector by ensuring proper practices are followed.

Mr. George believes better customer experiences will lead to increased spending and profitability for companies.

The Chief Executives recognized the meeting's importance in improving sector challenges. They committed to addressing these issues and meeting deadlines set by the Ministry.