Government has reaffirmed its commitment to reviving struggling state-owned telecom operator AirtelTigo (AT), with the Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, pledging decisive policy and operational reforms to stabilize the company’s operations and protect over 500 jobs.
Following a working visit to AirtelTigo last week, Minister George acknowledged the severe challenges facing the telco including a $200 million debt burden and monthly losses of approximately GH¢20 million. He described the company as being in a “troubled” but recoverable state, citing the resilience and expertise of its workforce as a valuable asset in the path to recovery.
“AT is a troubled company, no questions about it. But it also has some of the best human capital in the telecom industry. They’ve weathered very difficult storms, and now it’s our turn to step in with real solutions,” he noted.
The Minister made clear that the government will not shy away from difficult decisions required to restore the company’s viability. “We are committed to fixing the problems. We will not gloss over the issues. There are difficult conversations ahead, but we will have them and we will act boldly to save this company,” he asserted.
AirtelTigo, formerly a private-sector joint venture, was acquired by the Akufo-Addo administration in 2020 for a symbolic $1, with the intention of preserving jobs and maintaining market competitiveness. However, the deal came with a $400 million debt legacy, which has since been halved through restructuring, though the company remains financially distressed.
Minister George has criticised the previous administration for what he described as a lack of due diligence in the acquisition process, resulting in the government inheriting what he called a “failing and obsolete” operation.
To chart a turnaround, the government is expected to initiate a comprehensive reform agenda, which could include potential partnerships, technology upgrades, and governance changes. Analysts say these efforts must be swift and strategic, as continued losses risk further eroding AT’s market position in an increasingly competitive telecom landscape dominated by MTN Ghana and Vodafone.
The government’s renewed focus on AirtelTigo forms part of a broader strategy to safeguard state investments in the digital economy and restore public confidence in Ghana’s telecommunications infrastructure.
