Minister tells telecoms companies to improve quality of service or face sanctions

Minister Urges Telecom Companies to Improve Service Quality

Mr. Samuel George, the Minister of Communication, Digitalisation Technology and Innovation, met with executives from three telecommunications companies. He urged them to enhance service quality or face sanctions as per the Ministry's mandate.

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.

The meeting took place in Accra and included Chief Executives from MTN Ghana, AirtelTigo, and Telecel. The discussion followed a survey by the National Communications Authority on customer satisfaction.

The survey revealed that many customers are unhappy with service quality. It covered 48 localities during the first quarter of this year.

Mr. George mentioned ongoing negotiations for a strategic partner to revamp AirtelTigo. "We have started those conversations," he said, aiming for completion within 60 days.

He expects improved services on AirtelTigo by the end of the third quarter. Additionally, cabinet has approved spectrum allocation for Telecel and MTN to enhance service quality.

"We hope to see spectrum utilization start by September 2025," Mr. George stated. He anticipates significant improvements in service quality by December 2025.

Regarding data pricing, a committee was formed in February to create a roadmap for reductions before December 2025. The goal is to avoid shocks that could disrupt industry investment.

"We will take a staggered approach," he explained, focusing on price, value, and quality improvements across all three telcos.

In early July, Mr. George plans to brief the public about value for money from telecom services. He aims to announce increased value across all bundle offerings for Ghanaians.

The government is committed to resetting the sector and ensuring proper practices are followed. "Better experiences lead to more spending," he noted regarding profitability concerns.

The Chief Executives acknowledged the meeting's importance for improving the sector's future. They pledged to address challenges and meet deadlines set by the Ministry for better service quality.