Ericsson UK chief cites continued 5G challenges

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At the midway point of the 5G decade, there is still work to do in the UK to ensure the technology is being used to its potential, with a risk it will end up being monetised in the same way as previous generations, Ericsson UK and Ireland CEO Katherine Ainley (pictured) cautioned.

Speaking to Mobile World Live during MWC25 Barcelona, Ainley said although rollouts for non-standalone (NSA) and standalone (SA) variants of 5G in the UK were broadly going well, there is still a gap in terms of experience for some users.

“There’s lots more to do,” the executive said, adding “it feels quite different in different places. If you’re in an urban area, it’s great. If you’re in a rural area, probably not quite so great”.

Among the challenges cited were further use of mid-band spectrum and expansion of SA 5G, alongside pushing for more devices to be available in the market to support the newer variant. She said there is “still a risk that it’s monetised in a similar way to 4G and 3G, but just with a different badge on it”.

Although noting slicing deployments and “some exceptions”, she added there is an ambition from its operator customers to “get to a world” where people will pay for a premium experience. Examples include consumers paying for better coverage at a concert, or “paying a little bit more because whenever you’re on a Teams call it knows and it kicks in”.

Business momentum

In the enterprise sector, she noted momentum in ports and manufacturing for private networks among other segments, indicating a need to ensure discussions are around actual use cases rather than just the technology.

“Part of the problem is if you talk about a private network, you have to have quite a deep level of understanding to know what that is and why you want it,” noting it is a different conversation if “you say to someone do you want to remove all the wires from your factory, make it super-efficient and know what all your tools and production lines are doing”?

In terms of target sectors in the UK for private 5G deployments, Ainley cited logistics and travel, manufacturing and, “further down the line” public sector with the potential for “big efficiency improvements” in hospitals and the defence sector as examples.

www.mobileworldlive.com

By Chris Donkin

Telecel Ghana Foundation Wins SHIMEI Sustainability Award for Transformative Impact

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Telecel Ghana Foundation’s steadfast commitment to education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment has earned it the prestigious SHIMEI Sustainability Award.

This recognition highlights the Foundation’s far-reaching impact, which has directly benefited over 6,000 Ghanaians through health initiatives in communities, STEM education in schools, and digital and financial literacy workshops across the country within the last year.

For years, the Foundation has been at the forefront of bridging the gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) through its Grow Girls in STEM and DigiTech Academy programmes. These initiatives have equipped junior and senior high school girls with firsthand experience in artificial intelligence, data science, and robotics, preparing them for roles in the digital economy.

Beyond education, the Telecel Ghana Foundation continues to make a tangible difference in community healthcare. Through Healthfest, it has provided free medical screening and primary healthcare services to thousands in underserved communities. Additionally, its Rural Ultrasound Screening for Expectant Mothers project addresses maternal health challenges head-on, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3 – Good Health and Wellbeing.

Rita Agyeiwaa Rockson, Head of Foundation, Sustainability, and External Communications at Telecel Ghana, underscored the significance of this achievement: “At Telecel Ghana Foundation, we believe true sustainability is about impact, ensuring that every initiative leaves a lasting mark on individuals and communities. This award is a celebration of the thousands of lives we have touched and fuels our commitment to do even more.”

As the Foundation continues to drive purpose-driven initiatives, this recognition reaffirms its role as a key force in corporate social responsibility, ensuring that no community is left behind in Ghana’s journey toward sustainable development.

As the corporate social responsibility arm of Telecel Ghana, Telecel Ghana Foundation is committed to contributing directly to positive change in communities through the ‘Connected for Good’ initiatives focused on three pillars – education, health and community partnerships.

Aligned with Telecel’s purpose-driven vision of “Connecting Energies,” the Foundation invests in initiatives that advance digital and STEM education, enhance the health and wellbeing of communities, and strengthen local collaboration to improve the quality of life and future outcomes of people.

(Rita Rockson, Head of Foundation, Sustainability & External Communications at Telecel (second from right) receives the SHIMEI Sustainability Award at the SHIMEI Star Influential Awards.)

Early exposure to ICT shapes future women in tech – Acting AT CFO

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The Acting Chief Finance Officer of AT (formerly of airteltigo) Ama Adorkor Edjah, has made a call for more inclusion of the girl child in Information and Communication Technology at the tender age of their upbringing.

According to her, this helps to give outmost exposure to the girl child and goes a long way to have a profound impact on their career.

Participating in a panel discussion under this year’s FEMITECH Conference with the topic “Empowering the next generation: How families can support girls in tech” She recalled how her father’s enthusiasm for technology shaped her and her siblings’ curiosity and confidence in ICT.

“My dad was very intentional about us learning ICT. During our childhood, he made sure we practiced Mavis Beacon typing skills, and it became a competition among my siblings and me,” she stated. “This early exposure built my confidence in technology and set the foundation for my career. Today, I leverage financial technology to make my work efficient and create value.”

She further highlighted the critical role families must play in fostering an early interest in STEM ( Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). She stressed on the need for regular mentorship, this she believes when combined with parental encouragement, creates a strong support system that enables young girls to explore careers in the ICT area.

Delivering a keynote address at the event, The Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Hon. Samuel N. George, underscored the need for organizations to prioritize diversity in hiring practices, mentorship, and sponsorship to ensure the advancement of women in technology.

He emphasized that companies with strong mentorship programs see higher numbers of women progressing into leadership roles and stressed the importance of creating inclusive work environments that support work-life balance and mental well-being.

The conference also saw participation from other notable industry leaders, including Prof. Elsie E. Kaufmann, Ing. Dr. Lucy Agyepong, and Dr. G. Ayorkor Korsah who reiterated the importance of investment in digital education, mentorship, and policy support to bridge the gender gap in ICT.

The Females in Tech (FEMITECH) Conference, is an annual event which is held in celebration of the International Women’s Day (IWD) and organized by the Ghana-India Kofi Anan Centre of Excellence. It brings together industry leaders, policymakers, and aspiring young women to discuss the evolving role of women in technology under the theme “Accelerate Action”.

This year’s event featured insightful presentations on robotics as a gateway to creativity and innovation, cybersecurity, ICT in the energy sector.

The Conference also aims at promoting gender equality by inspiring, empowering, and mobilizing women in technology to take decisive career steps, advocate for equity, and drive innovation. It serves as a platform for cultivating future female leaders in tech and recognizing their contributions.

AT Ghana remains dedicated to empowering women in technology through strategic initiatives and partnerships. As an innovative network provider, AT continues to support mentorship programs and educational initiatives that inspire young girls to pursue careers in the digital space.

Red Hearts: How Telecel Ghana employees are crowdfunding for positive community

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Each year, Telecel Ghana employees from across functions collaborate to pitch their
passion humanitarian projects for possible selection as part of Red Hearts – the telco’s
Employee Volunteering Programme (EVP).


From improving local schools to supporting health initiatives, the overarching goal of Red
Hearts is to create meaningful, lasting positive change in underserved communities.
Selected projects are brought to life by the lead teams rallying employees together to
raise funds to match Telecel Foundation’s seed fund, dedicate time and expertise for the
completion of the community initiative.


“Red Hearts is built on the belief that employees are change-makers within their
communities. They can make their impact felt locally by giving back to the community
that nurtured them,” said Rita Agyeiwaa Rockson, Head of Foundation, Sustainability and
External Relations. “We are proud of our volunteers who contribute their time, energy,
and finances to providing better opportunities and outcomes, particularly in underserved
communities.”


Over the last year, the collective effort of employees has seen the renovation of a
community clinic, under-equipped Information Computer Technology (ICT) labs in rural
communities being completely refurbished and equipped with computers and tech
accessories as well as the construction of boreholes to increase access to water supply
in deprived areas.

Bridging the digital divide
Young people in the Anfoega Traditional Area, which consists of 13 small communities,
have long faced the challenge of learning hands-on digital skills as there are no
computers functioning in the schools. Students struggle to learn essential ICT skills that
would improve their performance in school and more importantly, in the Basic Education
Certificate Examination (BECE).


Telecel Ghana’s Finance, Digital Transformation and Commercial Operations teams
came to the aid of the communities by spearheading the renovation, furnishing and
equipping of the computer lab at the Anfoega Akukome E.P Primary School. With the new, state-of-the-art ICT lab handed over to the community in February, young people
are developing their digital skills in the lab, which is available to them during and after
school hours.


“I’ve always believed in the power of education, and it is unfair that some young people
are deprived of access to basic digital tools to develop their skills,” said Divine Madzi, a
project leader and Cash Operations Support Executive. “When we raised the funds to
complete the renovation and equipping of the lab, it felt like we were giving them a
better future.”

Water is life
In Akohia Siasi near Asesewa in the Eastern Region, Telecel employees led by the
technology team and the CEO’s office have recently inaugurated a water borehole in
the town to provide clean and reliable water to over 150 homes and families, who
previously struggled to access safe drinking water. Recognising the severe water scarcity
in the community, employees banded together to raise funds to match the seed fund
from Telecel Foundation and organised resources for the borehole.


“Clean water is a basic human need and right, and we’re proud to have played a role
in bringing this vital resource to Akohia Siasi. It will not only improve health and sanitation
but also contribute to a better quality of life for the community,” said Ing. Juliana
Ametorwogo, project lead and technology specialist at Telecel Ghana.
At the core of Red Hearts are the employees who embrace the spirit of volunteerism by
crowdfunding to raise the necessary funds and dedicating their time to oversee the
completion of the projects. Telecel Ghana’s CEO, Ing. Patricia Obo-Nai expressed pride
in the extensive community impact of the EVP initiatives.


“Our purpose comes alive through our employees. We believe in connecting energies
for the greater good and Red Hearts is a shining example of how our employees play an
active role in shaping the future of our local communities. The success of these projects
is the result of the generous spirit of our employees and the power of collective action.

Telecom group MTN points to recovery after naira devaluation drives losses

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The CEO of MTN Group (MTNJ.J) said the worst should be over for the company as its Nigeria unit recovers, after a naira devaluation pushed the group to an annual pre-tax loss of 4.4 billion rand ($243 million).

Nigeria has suffered chronic dollar shortages that have forced authorities to devalue the naira as part of the government’s measures to stabilise the currency and attract investment.

Coupled with high inflation and interest rates, this has driven up costs and widened MTN Nigeria’s (MTNN.LG)  pre-tax loss by more than 200% to 550.3 billion naira ($355.76 million).

At group level, South Africa-headquartered MTN reported a loss before tax of 4.4 billion rand in the year to December 31, from a 2023 profit of 12.2 billion rand.

The Nigeria business has a number of initiatives aimed at restoring profit and addressing its position when liabilities exceed assets, including renegotiating tower leases and a tariff hike, which was approved in January.

“That pain which we’ve had for 18 months, is abating somewhat … the business is growing very strongly. So I’m actually very bullish and confident that we’ll see strong recovery in Nigeria,” Group CEO Ralph Mupita said in a media call.

MTN Group, which has 291 million customers across 16 markets in Africa, saved 3.8 billion rand in costs, with 1.2 billion coming from the renegotiated tower leases, CFO Tsholofelo Molefe told Reuters.

In Sudan, the group’s operational and financial performance was hampered by the armed conflict in the country, resulting in impairments of 11.7 billion rand.

Mupita said that MTN has “started to see sites coming back on air” in areas where there was ongoing conflict such as in the capital Khartoum, where its network was down since April 2023.

“If you look at the underlying performance, which is service revenue at constant currency, it does look strong. Management team is executing well,” Peter Takaendesa, head of equities at Mergence Investment Managers, said.

“The challenge is just those macro and currency issues, which they really have limited control over.”

Group service revenue decreased by 15% to 177.8 billion rand but rose 14% in constant currency terms.

Reporting by Nqobile Dludla Editing by David Goodman and David Evans, Kirsten Donovan

Industry Players Applaud Dr. Arnold Kavaarpuo’s Appointment as Acting Executive Director of Data Protection Commission

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The appointment of Dr. Arnold Kavaarpuo as the Acting Executive Director of Ghana’s Data Protection Commission (DPC) has been widely welcomed by industry stakeholders, who view it as a crucial step toward strengthening data governance and privacy protection in the country.

Dr. Kavaarpuo, a seasoned fintech and data protection expert, was appointed by President John Dramani Mahama at a time when Ghana’s digital economy is expanding rapidly, bringing data security and regulatory compliance into sharper focus. With nearly two decades of experience spanning banking, insurance, and fintech, he is expected to drive reforms that will enhance the country’s data governance framework.

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On his part, Dr. Kavaarpuo has emphasized the need for collective action to ensure the commission’s success in carrying out its mission of implementing strong data governance policies that safeguard citizens’ privacy while fostering business innovation. 

Under Dr. Kavaarpuo’s leadership, the commission is expected to intensify public education on data privacy, enhance regulatory enforcement, and align Ghana’s data protection policies with global best practices. 

With a proven track record in financial inclusion and digital innovation, Dr. Kavaarpuo’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to strengthen Ghana’s data security ecosystem. Stakeholders are optimistic that his leadership will bring renewed focus and efficiency to the commission’s operations, ultimately fostering a culture of accountability and transparency in data handling across industries. 

Dr. Kavaarpuo has for a long time been most excited in driving game-changing financial services with a focus on exploring the nexus between edge technologies and financial products. Arnold holds a BA in Geography and Rural Development, a Master’s in Business Research, an MBA in Global Business, and a Doctorate in Business Administration.

The Data Protection Commission (DPC) is the statutory body responsible for overseeing data protection in Ghana. Established under the Data Protection Act, 2012 (Act 843), the commission regulates the processing of personal information, ensures compliance with data privacy laws, and works to increase public awareness of data protection rights. Under Dr. Kavaarpuo’s leadership, the DPC is expected to intensify education efforts, enhance enforcement measures, and promote Ghana as a leader in data protection across Africa.

With a strong background in financial services and technology-driven governance, Dr. Kavaarpuo’s appointment signals a renewed commitment to building a secure and transparent data ecosystem. Stakeholders are optimistic that his tenure will foster a culture of accountability, ensuring that businesses and institutions adhere to high data protection standards.

UNESCO and Ghana Forge AI-Powered Future in Digital Innovation

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A courtesy call by UNESCO to the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), marks the beginning of a promising collaboration between Ghana and UNESCO.

The meeting aims to discuss how Ghana could re-enforce its effort in the AI and innovation space.

The main areas of discussion spun across digital education, digital health access, and digitizing the agribusiness space.

Hon. Sam Nartey George further admonished the support of UNESCO in innovating Ghana’s cultural space with AI-based technology to increase cultural activity and revenue.

The Minister further stressed plans to galvanize Ghana’s data into a central data system.

Source: Extensia

Mali: $72 million to improve access to telecom services by 2025

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In 2025, the Universal Access Fund Management Agency (AGEFAU) plans to allocate 43.35 billion CFA francs ($72.06 million) to improving people’s access to telecommunications services. The institution’s budget was revealed last week during the 9th ordinary session of its board of directors.

“For the year 2025, the Agency will pursue several essential projects, including the extension of telecommunications network coverage, the establishment of universal access centers, as well as health initiatives, such as telemedicine in maternal and neonatal health,” read a press release published on social networks on Thursday, March 13.

These initiatives can help bridge the digital divide in Mali. Indeed, data from the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) shows that by 2023, 30% of Mali’s estimated population of around 24 million had no 3G network coverage. For 4G, the coverage gap rises to 47% of the population. In contrast, 2G already covered 100% of the population by 2023. However, the internet penetration rate is estimated at 33.1%, compared to 67.3% for mobile telephony.

However, AGEFAU still faces several obstacles to achieving its goals. The agency cites, in particular, the delay in budget approval, the non-payment of contributions by some telecommunications operators, as well as the security and health challenges facing Mali. By the end of the 2024 fiscal year, only 51% of the set targets had been achieved.

“Precautionary measures were taken following the Auditor General’s report, which highlighted administrative and financial irregularities within the agency. Changes to the general management were made to strengthen governance and ensure more transparent and rigorous management,” the agency said.

Source: Extensia

Airtel Nigeria launches AI spam alert service

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Airtel Nigeria has launched an artificial intelligence (AI) spam detection tool for customers to combat the plague of spam messages.

Dr. Bosun Tijani, minister of communications, innovation, and digital economy, and Dr. Aminu Maida, executive vice chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, both commended the launch.

The service will begin in Nigeria, targeting Airtel users on smartphones and feature phones. According to the business, there is no app installation or activation required, and it is free for users.

Airtel said the AI spam alert service will be rolled out in all 13 additional Airtel Africa countries in the coming months, protecting millions of Airtel consumers.

“This innovative service keeps you safe and secure,” said the telco.

Source: Extensia

Helios Towers’ 2024 Signals a New Era of Growth

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Helios Towers has delivered a defining year in its financial journey, achieving two major milestones: ten consecutive years of Adjusted EBITDA growth and the company’s first-ever positive free cash flow. This marks a significant shift from expansion-driven financial strategies to a business model that is not just scaling, but self-sustaining.

What the Numbers Reveal

  • Tenancy Growth as a Profit Driver: The company recorded 2,481 new tenancies, bringing its total to 29,406. This translated into a 14% jump in Adjusted EBITDA and a 10% revenue increase to $792 million.
  • Efficiency at Scale: The tenancy ratio rose to 2.05x (from 1.91x), reinforcing the efficiency of Helios’ colocation model. This ratio is key—higher colocation rates mean greater revenue from existing assets, reducing capital intensity and improving return on invested capital (ROIC).
  • Positive Free Cash Flow – A Pivotal Moment: With $100 million in cash flow expansion, Helios recorded $18.7 million in free cash flow, a crucial turning point that signals financial self-sufficiency. This is a game-changer, paving the way for deleveraging and potential capital returns to shareholders in 2026.
  • Debt Refinancing & Improved Credit Profile: Net debt fell by 3% to $1.73 billion, and leverage reduced to 4.0x from 4.4x. Rating agencies took notice—S&P upgraded Helios to BB-, marking its second upgrade within a year.

Beyond the Numbers: The Strategic Impact

Helios Towers’ success is not just about revenue and profit growth—it is about optimizing operational efficiency while expanding network reach. The company now covers 151 million people, up from 144 million in 2023, and has exceeded its 2026 target for rural sites two years ahead of schedule.

The strong 99.99% power uptime further underlines Helios’ focus on reliability, a key metric for mobile operators in emerging markets where infrastructure challenges remain a bottleneck.

Looking ahead, Helios’ 2.2x tenancy ratio target by 2026 is critical. Achieving this will unlock even greater margin expansion, strengthen free cash flow, and ensure sustainable, long-term growth. The company’s commitment to digital transformation, AI-powered network planning, and energy efficiency will further bolster its competitive edge.

What This Means for Africa’s Telecom Landscape

Helios Towers’ trajectory highlights the evolving telecom infrastructure model in Africa. The shift from single-operator sites to shared infrastructure is not just about cost savings—it is about accelerating connectivity in a sustainable way. As mobile penetration deepens and data demand surges, Helios is positioning itself as a linchpin in Africa’s digital transformation.

With its 2024 results setting a solid financial foundation, Helios Towers is no longer just expanding—it is now poised to optimize and monetize its infrastructure at an unprecedented scale.

Source: TechAfrica News