The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications has entered a new chapter of leadership following the election of MTN Ghana’s Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Blewett, as Chairperson of its Governing Council.

His appointment, which was announced after the Chamber’s 14th Annual General Meeting (AGM), marks a significant shift in the sector’s direction for the 2025–2026 term.

Blewett succeeds Patricia Obo Nai, CEO of Telecel Ghana, who has been a steady hand at the helm of the Chamber in recent years. Obo Nai now assumes the role of Vice Chairperson, ensuring continuity of leadership and collaboration within the industry’s governing body.

As Chairperson, Stephen Blewett will be responsible for spearheading advocacy initiatives, strengthening the Chamber’s partnerships with government and regulatory authorities, and driving innovation to boost digital inclusion. His duties include chairing bi-monthly Governing Council meetings, overseeing strategic programs, and representing the Chamber at both national and international forums.

In his acceptance remarks, Blewett expressed deep appreciation for the leadership of Patricia Obo Nai and called for unity across the sector. “The telecommunications sector is the backbone of Ghana’s digital economy,” he said. “But the challenges we face demand collective ingenuity and partnership. We must bind together to surmount these obstacles and ensure sustained growth.”

The AGM brought into sharp focus some of the pressing challenges confronting Ghana’s telecom industry. Among the most prominent issues raised were the theft and vandalism of infrastructure, destruction of fiber-optic cables, high levels of taxation, escalating operational fees, and intensifying cybersecurity threats.

These concerns threaten not only the operational efficiency of telecom companies but also the broader goal of advancing Ghana’s digital transformation. As Chair, Blewett will be tasked with leading industry-wide conversations to address these issues and advocating for policies that safeguard the sustainability of the sector.

During the leadership transition, outgoing Chair Patricia Obo Nai shared reflections on her time at the helm, acknowledging the turbulence the sector has endured in recent years. “It’s been a difficult time due to several challenges, but we’ve stood strong,” she said. “The times ahead require us to work collectively, and I’m confident Stephen’s vision will guide us forward.”

Her continued presence as Vice Chairperson signals her commitment to contributing to the Chamber’s efforts, while also ensuring that institutional memory and strategic continuity are preserved.

Driving Ghana’s Digital Economy

The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications plays a central role in shaping the future of the nation’s digital economy. As the official voice of the mobile telecom and technology sector, it provides a platform for collaboration among industry leaders while serving as a strong advocate for mobile financial services and telecom development.

Under Blewett’s leadership, the Chamber is expected to focus on strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure, promoting inclusive access to technology, and building resilience against operational risks. His tenure will also emphasize innovation as a key driver of growth, aligning with Ghana’s ambition to position itself as a regional digital hub.

The Governing Council, which serves as the Chamber’s board of directors, is comprised of the heads of member organizations. Meeting bi-monthly, the Council is tasked with setting the industry’s strategic agenda and ensuring that Ghana’s telecom sector remains competitive in an ever-evolving global landscape.

At the 14th AGM, members also approved the Chamber’s 2024 financial statements and authorized the Governing Council to determine auditor remuneration. These administrative steps reflect the Chamber’s continued commitment to transparency and sound governance.

Meanwhile, the appointment of Stephen Blewett as Chairperson of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications has been widely welcomed as a positive step toward strengthening the sector’s influence and addressing its multifaceted challenges. With a strong background as CEO of MTN Ghana, Blewett brings both experience and vision to his new role.