The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has inaugurated a new governing board for the National Communications Authority (NCA), urging it to move swiftly to restore Ghana’s leadership in Africa’s telecommunications space and to prepare the nation for the rollout of 5G technology.
The brief ceremony in Accra saw Mrs. Mavis Araba Ampaa take office as the first woman to chair the NCA board. She will lead a nine-member team made up of professionals from the communications, technology, academia, and governance sectors.
Other members are Hon. Mohammed Adam Sukpara, Mr. Edmond Yirenkyi Fianko, Mr. Mahama Seth Sayibu, Mr. George Sarpong, Madam Augustina Yaa Oye Odame, Dr. Bishop Selasi Agyin Asare, Mrs. Barbara Serwaa Asamoah, and Mr. George Atta Boateng.
Administering the Oath of Office and Oath of Secrecy, Mr. George congratulated the board and urged them to “hit the ground running.” He noted that the NCA board was the last to be constituted under the new administration, nine months into government.
“We are finalizing a new Electronic Communications Act that will redefine Ghana’s digital landscape. You are coming in at a crucial moment to help us complete that transition and position Ghana for 5G deployment,” he said.
He expressed concern that Ghana, once a continental leader in 3G and 4G deployment, now risks falling behind in 5G readiness. He therefore charged the board to focus on spectrum efficiency, quality of service, and improving user experience.
“We have tackled data pricing and affordability, the next challenge is quality of experience. Citizens must feel the impact of our policies through faster and more reliable internet,” the Minister added.
He reminded the board to draw a clear line between policy oversight and administrative duties, emphasizing that daily management of the Authority remains the responsibility of the Director-General and his deputies.
Mr. George said the inauguration of the board is part of a broader effort to strengthen Ghana’s digital economy and innovation agenda by improving connectivity, promoting digital literacy, and expanding broadband access across the country.
He also announced that the NCA will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2026 with major international events, including conferences of the African Telecommunications Union and the International Telecommunication Union, to position Ghana as a regional hub for digital policy dialogue.
Expressing confidence in the new board, he described it as diverse, competent, and forward-looking, assuring members of the Ministry’s continued policy support.
In her response, Mrs. Ampaa thanked the President and the Minister for the confidence reposed in her and her team. She pledged to lead the Authority with integrity and collaboration, promising to strengthen regulatory oversight and enhance service delivery.
“This board represents a blend of experience, technical expertise, and public service commitment. We will work closely with the Ministry and management to ensure Ghana’s communications infrastructure meets global standards,” she said, adding that the board will focus on spectrum management, consumer protection, and supporting the country’s transition to 5G and emerging technologies.
