Ghana’s digital transformation may be gathering steam, but the engine is running low on fuel thanks to widespread non-compliance with statutory levies by licensed telecom network support service providers.
Dr. Rashid Tanko , Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), is making it clear: the era of free-riding on Ghana’s digital revolution is over.
Speaking at the launch of the government’s One Million Coders initiative, Dr. Tanko Computer delivered a firm yet forward-looking message backed by legal mandate and national interest.
“Under the Electronic Communications Act, all licensed service providers accredited by the National Communications Authority must contribute 1% of their annual investment to GIFEC,” he stated.
Millions of cedis lost and countless rural communities still left without reliable connectivity or access to digital education.
“This isn’t a witch-hunt It’s a reset a move to restore fairness and sustainability in funding Ghana’s digital future. We’re coming after the defaulters this year” Dr. Tanko emphasized.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. With initiatives like One Million Coders sparking excitement from schoolchildren to traditional leaders, the potential for inclusive, grassroots digital empowerment is tangible but it needs funding.
Dr. Tanko didn’t mince words on accountability, also pointing a finger at past governments for their regulatory inertia. “If enforcement had been prioritized years ago, GIFEC would be miles ahead in delivering rural telephony and digital literacy. The neglect has cost us dearly.” He noted.
The CEO called on civil society, media, and digital platforms to amplify awareness and encourage compliance. “We’re not demanding anything new just what’s lawfully due. Every cedi paid enables us to equip more Ghanaians with digital tools, skills, and opportunities.”
