Government has entered into advanced negotiations with a strategic investor to revamp and potentially take over operations of the state-owned telecom operator AirtelTigo, now rebranded as AT. This move is part of a broader strategy to reposition the telecom provider and strengthen competition within the country’s dynamic telecommunications industry.
The disclosure was made by the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, during a high-level stakeholder engagement with telecom CEOs.
“Maybe for the first time, I will put out that the government is currently in negotiations with a strategic partner to revamp and take over AT,” Sam George stated.
“We started these conversations. We have given a 60-day window for the completion of those negotiations so that by the end of Q3, we could see a full roll out of the improved services from AT.” He added.
Strategic Push to Reposition AT
AirtelTigo has faced operational and competitive challenges since the government assumed full control of the company in 2021. The planned revamp aims to inject fresh capital and technical expertise into AT to turn the tide.
If the deal is concluded within the stipulated 60-day window, consumers could begin to experience upgraded services as early as the third quarter of 2025. The goal, according to the Minister, is not only to restore the operator’s market competitiveness but also to improve the overall quality of telecommunications services in the country.
“It is good to hear CAPEX requirements that are coming in. As Minister, I hold in trust for the Ghanaian people,” he added, emphasizing the government’s commitment to delivering value through this transaction.
Spectrum Boost for Industry Players
In a move to catalyze network expansion and infrastructure upgrades, Mr. George also announced that Cabinet has approved the allocation of new spectrum resources to key industry players, including Telecel and MTN.
“Cabinet is giving approval for spectrum to be offered to Telecel and MTN as well,” he noted.
“The regulators also brought to my attention a request for connecting entity licenses so that the likes of AirtelTigo and Telecel that are pretty constrained spectrum-wise could immediately take advantage of some resources on the NGIC platform. MTN is also welcome if they are interested to take part of those resources.” He added.
The National Ghana Investment Corporation (NGIC) platform, designed to provide shared infrastructure and enhance service efficiency, is expected to play a pivotal role in this next phase of telecom sector development.
