In a significant development for Ghana’s telecommunications sector, Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George has officially inaugurated a new National Communications Authority (NCA) board, appointing Mavis Araba Ampaa as its first female chairperson. This momentous occasion at the Ministry in Accra marks a pivotal step for the NCA, which has not seen female leadership at the board level in nearly three decades.
The newly appointed board, composed of nine members with technology, academia, and governance backgrounds, will be crucial in navigating a critical period for Ghana’s telecommunications landscape. During the swearing-in ceremony, Minister Nartey George administered the Oath of Office. He emphasised the urgency of their responsibilities, particularly as the government works on a new Electronic Communications Act aimed at modernising the nation’s digital framework.
“You are stepping into a key role at a time that will shape the future of telecommunications in Ghana, especially concerning our readiness for 5G deployment,” he stated, referencing ongoing challenges in rolling out 5G services.
Despite efforts, Ghana has faced multiple delays in launching commercial 5G services, missing deadlines, including targets set for December 2024, January 2025, May 2025, and most recently June 2025. While a ceremonial launch occurred in November 2024, the actual rollout of services remains pending.
The minister expressed concern regarding Ghana’s declining status in the African telecommunications sector, noting that while the country previously led in 3G and 4G technology deployment, it now risks losing ground to regional competitors. The new board is tasked with enhancing spectrum efficiency, improving service quality, and elevating user experience.
“We’ve made strides in tackling data pricing and affordability, but our next challenge is to enhance the quality of experience. Citizens need to feel the impact of our policies through faster and more reliable internet services,” Nartey George highlighted.
He also reminded the board members to maintain a clear distinction between their oversight duties and day-to-day operational management, which will remain the Director-General’s responsibility and his team’s responsibility.
As part of a broader digital economy agenda, the inauguration aligns with the Ministry’s goals of improving connectivity, fostering digital literacy, and expanding broadband access throughout the country. Nartey George also disclosed plans for international events in 2026, coinciding with the NCA’s 30th anniversary, including hosting conferences for both the African Telecommunications Union and the International Telecommunication Union.
In her acceptance speech, Ampaa expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama and the minister for their trust in the new board. She characterised the team as a blend of experience, technical skill, and commitment to public service.
She assured that “we will collaborate closely with the Ministry and management to enhance regulatory oversight, improve service delivery, and ensure that Ghana’s communications infrastructure meets international standards. “
Ampaa underscored the board’s commitment to prioritising spectrum management, consumer protection, and facilitating the transition to 5G and other emerging technologies. These priorities are critical as pressure mounts for the government to fulfil its delayed 5G promises.
The new board includes Deputy Minister Mohammed Adam Sukpara, NCA Director-General Edmond Yirenkyi Fianko, Mahama Seth Sayibu, George Sarpong, Augustina Yaa Oye Odame, Dr Bishop Selasi Agyin Asare, Barbara Serwaa Asamoah, and George Atta Boateng. Nartey George has described this diverse team as competent and forward-looking and pledged the Ministry’s ongoing support.
The rapidity with which the new board can reinvigorate Ghana’s 5G deployment remains uncertain. While the Next Generation Infrastructure Company, which holds the 5G license, has indicated that services might commence by the fourth quarter of 2025, previous timelines have proven unreliable.
Ampaa and her team face the critical challenge of balancing regulatory oversight with the pressing need to restore Ghana’s telecommunications competitiveness in a region where several countries have already activated commercial 5G networks. The minister’s directive to “hit the ground running” signals the government’s expectations for swift and effective progress on longstanding digital infrastructure priorities.
