Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia has emphasized the importance of telecommunication companies in Ghana moving beyond the expansion of physical infrastructure to investing in human and other resources that are crucial for their offerings to the Ghanaian and African markets. This call was made during the launch of operations for Telecel Ghana, the new majority shareholders in the company formerly known as Vodafone Ghana.
Dr. Bawumia reminded telcos, fintechs, and stakeholders in the technology ecosystem that one of the surest ways of ensuring lasting success is investing in the youth, who are the future of any endeavor.
“Let me challenge you to look beyond physical infrastructure. Your corporate social responsibility must include a deliberate investment and development of the digital capabilities and capacities of young Ghanaians across the country at all levels. As we celebrate this momentous occasion, remember that you also have a role in shaping the future of our nation.”
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia
Dr. Bawumia reminded the leadership of Telecel that innovation is the heartbeat of success in the telecom and indeed the business environment, and challenged them to make a difference in the Ghanaian telecom market with offerings that would make their brand attractive.
“In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, innovation is key to staying ahead. Your customers require an accessible, safe, affordable, and reliable network always. I am happy about Telecel’s commitment to expanding its network and bringing more innovation into this space. In that regard, you have the government’s firm support.”
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia
Vice President Bawumia praised the introduction and increasing use of Mobile Money and urged Telecel’s management to investigate the various options available for expanding financial inclusion. He acknowledged that while much work had been done, more needed to be done.
According to the Ministry of Finance, the value of mobile money transactions as of December 2016 was GH¢78.5billion. However, since the introduction of Mobile Money Interoperability between different networks and bank accounts, there has been a very rapid expansion in the volume of transactions. In 2023, mobile money transactions hit a record GHC199.3 trillion, which represents a 64.3% increase from the previous year. This has made Ghana the number one country in Africa for financial inclusion because we have achieved 100% availability and inclusion for every Ghanaian.
“I applaud your commitment to corporate social responsibility through the Telecel Foundation and Africa Start-Up Initiative Programme (ASIP). Your initiatives to support education, healthcare, and support for start-ups reflect your dedication to making a meaningful impact beyond business success. This aligns perfectly with our government’s vision of building a more equitable and prosperous society for all Ghanaians.”
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia
The Vice President urged Telecel to uphold the highest standards of ethics, transparency, and corporate governance in all its endeavors. He added that he does not doubt the brand will not only thrive but also contribute significantly to the advancement of the nation’s telecommunications sector.
Telecel Group
Telecel Group is an international telecommunications service provider with a significant presence in over 20 countries, including Ghana. The company was founded in 1986 and is headquartered in London, England. Telecel Group operates in four distinct lines of business within the telecom industry: Telecel Mobile, Telecel Global, Telecel AI, and the Africa Startup Initiative Program.
These operations span across mobile network operations, providing services to mobile network operators (MNOs), offering AI solutions, and supporting innovative African startups through the Africa Startup Initiative Program Operating in over 27 countries, with over six million active subscribers, Telecel aims to digitally empower Africa through technology, connecting remote areas for inclusivity, and focusing on education as a catalyst for growth and accessibility, according to its Board.
In Ghana, Telecel Group acquired Vodafone International’s 70% stake in Ghana Telecom in February 2023, with the Government of Ghana retaining its 30% stake. This acquisition marked a significant milestone for Telecel in the Ghanaian market, where it has since been working to synergize operations, including leadership and operational changes.
Patricia Obo-Nai, the first Ghanaian CEO of Vodafone Ghana, has been appointed as the first CEO of Telecel Ghana. Telecel aims to digitally empower Africa through technology, focusing on inclusivity and education as catalysts for growth and accessibility.
Speaking at the launch, the Chairman and Co-founder of the Telecel Group, Mr. Nicolas Bourg, said the company intends to focus on “positive disruption and innovation in the Ghanaian telecoms market,” adding “We chose to invest in Ghana because of the manifest potential of the youth and people of Ghana.”
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