Industry News

The Communication Minister, Samuel Nartey George, has revealed that Cabinet has approved a completely new SIM registration exercise following what he described as an extensive review of the previous process.

According to the Minister, the earlier exercise faced several challenges, including weak biometric enforcement, data inconsistencies and cases of registration fraud.

He disclosed this during high-level talks with the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications and the National Communications Authority (NCA). The meeting discussed the planned new national SIM registration exercise and the roadmap for the rollout of 5G in Ghana.

Mr George stressed that the new approach will not be a continuation of the previous system but a complete reset aimed at restoring credibility and strengthening security in the process.

Details and outcomes of new SIM registration

During the meeting, the Minister outlined key elements and expected outcomes of the new SIM registration exercise.

He disclosed that the National Communications Authority will serve as the central repository of SIM registration data. Biometric verification will also be mandatory under the new framework.

“A Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) will be introduced to enable cross-network blocking of stolen or fraud-linked devices,” the Minister added.

He further revealed that “a revised Legislative Instrument (L.I.) is being prepared to regulate the exercise.”

Telecom operators who participated in the meeting welcomed the initiative but raised some operational concerns.

However, it is not yet clear when the new registration exercise will commence or who will bear the cost of implementing it.

The planned exercise will mark the second nationwide SIM registration drive after a similar exercise in 2021, which the current administration says was plagued by several challenges.

Government’s 5G policy and new spectrum auction

On 5G deployment, the Minister disclosed that Cabinet has approved the removal of the exclusivity clause under the previous wholesale 5G framework.

This decision clears the way for a new competitive spectrum auction process.

Mr George clarified that the wholesale model has not been cancelled. Instead, the revised framework will enable a network-based rollout to ensure universal deployment across operators.

Among the key highlights is a new 5G spectrum auction, which is expected to be concluded soon.

The rollout is also expected to be coordinated to prevent market distortion within the telecommunications sector.

Some telecom operators at the meeting, however, highlighted the capital-intensive nature of 5G technology. They noted that deployment will require significant investment in spectrum acquisition, network upgrades and infrastructure expansion.

The operators called for reasonable spectrum pricing, predictable policy direction and streamlined regulatory approvals to enable rapid deployment.

The meeting also focused on Cabinet-approved reforms aimed at strengthening national security, improving quality of service and accelerating Ghana’s digital transformation.

It ended with an agreement on structured technical engagements between the Ministry, the NCA, the Telecoms Chamber and telecom operators to refine the implementation framework for both the SIM registration exercise and the 5G spectrum auction.

Immediate next steps include finalising the revised Legislative Instrument and publishing the auction documentation.

source : www.myjoyonline.com

• Ericsson and Econet Wireless Zimbabwe sign memorandum of understanding to collaborate on AI-driven, secure and sustainable network innovation for enhanced connectivity.
• The collaboration will explore 5G Advanced, AI-driven radio access network (RAN), exposed network APIs, network slicing and IoT-enabled services and use cases to enable wider digital inclusion, remote learning, e-health and more.
• The collaboration builds on more than 20 years of technology partnership in Zimbabwe.

Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) and Econet Wireless Zimbabwe (ZSE: ECO.ZW) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, Spain to design, test and deploy next-generation mobile services in Zimbabwe powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), 5G Advanced and enhanced network security.

The joint innovation programs will include initial focus areas such as AI-driven radio access network (RAN) optimization and energy-efficient network evolution, 5G Advanced features, AI-driven RAN, exposed network APIs, network slicing and Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled services to enhance network performance, drive service reliability, and boost user experiences.

The collaboration will deliver practical solutions that support Zimbabwe’s national sustainability goals while enabling Econet’s continued network growth. Ericsson and Econet will deploy AI‑driven network optimization and automation to enhance energy performance and improve operational efficiency. Moreover, deploying energy‑efficient LTE and 5G solutions, and network architectures will reduce carbon footprint while expanding coverage and capacity

By combining advanced connectivity with automation and security capabilities, the collaboration aims to support Zimbabwe’s national ICT Policy 2022 – 2027 by enabling wider digital inclusion and facilitating new and improved digital services across sectors such as education, healthcare, enterprise and industry digitalization.

The collaboration is expected to improve network capacity, energy efficiency, and service reliability across key urban and rural areas.

Roy Chimanikire, Deputy CEO at Econet Zimbabwe, says: “This memorandum of understanding with Ericsson reflects our continued focus on evolving our network capabilities to meet growing customer expectations and national digital priorities. By exploring AI-driven automation, advanced connectivity and sustainable network solutions, we aim to enhance service performance while enabling new digital opportunities across Zimbabwe.”

Alain Maupin, Vice President and Head of Ericsson East and North Africa, says: “Together with Econet Zimbabwe, we are advancing the evolution toward intelligent, programmable and more sustainable networks in the country. By leveraging Ericsson’s leadership in programmable and AI-native networks, this memorandum of understanding creates a framework for testing and deploying technologies that enhance network resilience, automation and service innovation to provide communities with advanced connectivity that can enable meaningful digital services in their daily lives.”

The MoU builds on a trusted and long-standing relationship spanning more than 20 years, during which Ericsson has delivered core and radio network solutions supporting Econet Zimbabwe’s infrastructure.

Source : www.ericsson.com

The Administrator and Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), Sofo Rashid Tanko-Computer, has underscored the organisation’s unwavering commitment to expanding rural connectivity across Ghana.

Speaking during a high-level meeting with global technology leader Huawei at the Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, Spain, on 5 March, the GIFEC CEO emphasised that improving the Rural Telephony Project remains a central pillar of the organisation’s strategy to ensure underserved and unserved communities have access to reliable telecommunications services.

The GIFEC delegation, led by Tanko-Computer and accompanied by Director of Corporate Affairs Francisca Adjei, engaged with Huawei’s leadership, including Li Junfeng, Vice President of Huawei and Chief Executive Officer of the company’s Global Public Sector Business Unit, and Mlungisi Nhlapo, Huawei’s Advisory Product Manager.

The meeting explored innovative solutions to strengthen rural telephony services, aligning with GIFEC’s mission to bridge the digital divide and support Ghana’s digital transformation agenda.

During the discussions, Huawei presented cutting-edge advancements in rural telephony, including the latest version of their Rural Telephony Project (RTP) masts. 

These modern masts are designed to improve network quality and expand coverage in remote areas, providing enhanced voice and data services to communities that currently lack sufficient telecommunications infrastructure.

Source : www.radiotamaleonline.com

Huawei Technologies, a Chinese multinational technology company, is to provide free artificial intelligence (AI) training for girls nationwide under the Government’s Information Communication Technology for Girls Programme.

The initiative follows discussions at the ongoing Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, Spain, where Ghana engaged the technology company on expanding digital skills development.

Mr Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, said he secured the multi-million-dollar commitment from Huawei during a meeting with Mr Steven Yi, Senior Vice President of Huawei.

He said the company also expressed interest in Ghana’s technology ecosystem, particularly the proposed US$250 million AI Computer Centre, rural telephony expansion and the rollout of 5G technology.

Mr Nartey George explained that after Huawei showed interest in rural telephony, he insisted the company should support the country through free AI training under the ICT for Girls Programme, which it agreed to provide.

Currently, the Girls in ICT Programme offers modules in coding, animation (Scratch) and basic computing skills during a two-week training period.

The Minister said Huawei’s participation would introduce a crash programme in AI skills.

He said the development was important because beneficiaries could immediately transition to the One Million Coders Programme for further training, adding that this meant “we are catching them young.”

Mr George said the Huawei Senior Vice President had instructed the Huawei Ghana office to collaborate with the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) and the Ministry to deliver AI training for the 3,000 girls participating in this year’s Girls in ICT Programme.

He said discussions were also held with Huawei on the possibility of establishing a handheld device assembly plant in Ghana to produce affordable smart devices for the local market and neighbouring countries.

Mr George said the proposal aligned with an initiative by the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) and seven partner original equipment manufacturers, including Huawei, as well as six leading African telecommunications companies, to supply US$40 smart handheld devices across Africa.

The initiative will first be piloted in six countries before expanding across the continent.

Source : www.msn.com

MTN Ghana Foundation has handed over a newly constructed Accident and Emergency (A&E) Centre to the Ho Teaching Hospital to strengthen emergency healthcare delivery in the Volta and Oti Regions.

The 30-bed capacity facility, equipped with modern medical equipment, was officially inaugurated on Thursday, March 5, at the hospital in Ho. 

The centre includes offices for heads of department, resting rooms for doctors and nurses, a syndicate room, an electrical room, washrooms, an isolation room, a laboratory, and other support facilities designed to improve patient care and staff efficiency.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of the hospital, Dr. (Med) Hintermann K. Mbroh, described the project as a significant milestone in enhancing healthcare delivery in the region.

He noted that emergency units often serve as the first point of contact for patients facing trauma, sudden illness, or other life-threatening conditions, making timely and effective care critical.

“Today marks an important moment for our hospital and for healthcare delivery in the Volta and Oti Regions. In moments of trauma, sudden illness and crisis, the difference between life and death often depends on how quickly and effectively care can be provided,” he said.

Dr. Mbroh expressed gratitude to the MTN Ghana Foundation for the investment, stating that the expansion will greatly strengthen the hospital’s ability to respond to emergencies.

He added that beyond infrastructure, the hospital remains committed to fostering a culture of safety, teamwork, accountability, and compassion to deliver quality healthcare.

Speaking at the ceremony, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer of MTN Ghana, Madam Adowa Wiafe, said the project reflects the company’s commitment to improving healthcare access and supporting national development.

According to her, the new facility represents an investment of more than GH¢15 million and was designed to international standards to help reduce congestion in the hospital’s emergency department and improve patient flow.

“This centre represents an investment of over 15 million Ghana cedis, but its true value cannot be measured in cedis. Its worth lies in the lives it will touch and the lives it will save,” she said.

She explained that the project forms part of the MTN Ghana Foundation’s broader efforts to invest in health infrastructure across the country, noting that the foundation has implemented more than 55 health-related projects nationwide, including maternity blocks, intensive care units, emergency centres, and the provision of medical equipment.

Madam Wiafe also revealed that the foundation plans to construct another health facility and provide modern diagnostic equipment to selected hospitals later this year.

Chairman of the Governing Board of the Ho Teaching Hospital, Dr. Delanyo, welcomed the facility, describing emergency care as a crucial component of any health system.

He said the new centre aligns with the hospital’s long-term vision of becoming a leading healthcare institution in the country.

“We are particularly pleased with what we have seen. This project brings us closer to the vision of making Ho Teaching Hospital a leading healthcare institution not only in the region but across the country,” he said.

The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, who attended the ceremony, commended the MTN Ghana Foundation for what he described as a remarkable example of corporate support for national development.

He said the facility will significantly improve the hospital’s capacity to respond to medical emergencies and reduce the need for patients to be referred to other regions for critical care.

“This new accident and emergency block is more than just a building. It is a lifeline that will help save countless lives,” he said.

Mr. Gunu added that the initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of strengthening healthcare infrastructure across the country.

According to him, improving healthcare access remains a key priority of the government led by President John Dramani Mahama, particularly through investments in health facilities and primary healthcare services.

Speaking to the media after the ceremony, Madam Wiafe explained that the MTN Ghana Foundation focuses on three main pillars—education, health, and economic empowerment—and continues to undertake projects nationwide to support community development.

She emphasised that strong partnerships between government and the private sector remain essential in addressing gaps in healthcare infrastructure and ensuring quality medical services for citizens.

“With this facility, every equipment needed to provide emergency care has been provided. We expect the hospital authorities to maintain it well and ensure that it continues to deliver quality healthcare to the people,” she said.

Source : www.myjoyonline.com

The adoption of eSIM technology is accelerating globally, with the GSMA projecting that eSIM-enabled smartphone connections will reach 2.5 billion by 2028.

In its 2026 Mobile Economy Report, the GSMA said eSIMs are expected to account for 42% of all SIM technologies by 2030, reflecting a shift away from physical SIM cards. Once limited to premium devices, eSIM is now standard in mid-range smartphones, wearables, and connected products.

In Kenya, operators including Airtel and Safaricom already offer eSIM services. The technology has particularly benefited frequent travellers by eliminating the need to swap physical SIM cards.

After previously citing slow uptake due to limited compatible devices and low promotion by operators, the GSMA noted growing momentum as manufacturers such as Apple and Google introduce eSIM-only devices, removing physical SIM trays to advance fully digital connectivity.

The industry outlook was highlighted at the opening of the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, where GSMA Director General Vivek Badrinath called for stronger collaboration to secure networks and close digital gaps. The GSMA reported that mobile contributed $7.6 trillion to the global economy in 2025 but warned that cybercrime could cost $15.63 trillion globally by 2029.

Source: www.techafricanews.com

The MTN Nigeria Foundation has graduated 5,980 young Nigerians under Phase 7 of its ICT and Business Skills Training Programme, advancing digital inclusion and youth entrepreneurship across Nigeria’s 774 local governments.

Launched in 2018 and moved online in 2020, the programme has trained 15,962 youths across about 30 states, with over ₦1 billion invested in the initiative.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony in Abuja, Executive Director of the Foundation, Mrs. Odunayo Sanya, said the programme reflects MTN’s commitment to shared growth and inclusive development. She disclosed that the Foundation, funded by up to one percent of MTN Nigeria’s profit after tax, has invested approximately ₦33 billion in community projects over 22 years, impacting nearly 4,000 communities and 520 local governments. She added that increased support will be directed toward female entrepreneurs.

Chairman of the Foundation, Dr. Mosun Belo-Olusoga, represented by Mallam Surajuddeen Yakubu, described the graduation as a milestone in youth-led enterprise development and reaffirmed continued post-training support.

Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, said the initiative aligns with tax reforms supporting micro and small enterprises, including zero percent corporate income tax for companies with turnover below ₦100 million and assets under ₦250 million, as well as exemptions for informal businesses earning below ₦12 million annually. He urged beneficiaries to formalise their businesses and maintain proper records.

Director-General of SMEDAN, Mr. Charles Odii, noted Nigeria’s MSME sector faces an estimated ₦20 trillion financing gap and emphasised the need for private sector collaboration. He commended the Foundation for providing ₦300 million in equipment support to 600 beneficiaries and pledged SMEDAN’s support in business formalisation and access to financing.

---

Source: www.vanguardngr.com

Malawi’s Minister of Information and Digitalization, Shadric Namalomba, held talks with Swedish telecom group Ericsson on a potential partnership in telecommunications and digital training. The meeting took place in Barcelona, Spain, during the Mobile World Congress held from March 2 to March 5, 2026.

Discussions focused on establishing training programs in emerging technologies, including 5G networks, advanced ICT systems, and artificial intelligence. The initiative aims to equip Malawian youth and professionals with technical skills aligned with global market needs.

The talks also explored ways to expand connectivity, particularly in rural areas where internet coverage remains limited. Participants discussed energy-efficient and lower-cost network deployment models as part of efforts to promote digital inclusion.

For the Malawian government, the discussions with Ericsson are part of a broader strategy to strengthen the country’s digital ecosystem. Developing local technical skills is seen as a key driver of innovation, technological entrepreneurship, and workforce readiness for the digital economy.

According to the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), Malawi recorded a score of 0.1886 out of 1 on the Telecommunication Infrastructure Index (TII) in 2024. The index measures connectivity infrastructure such as internet, mobile, and fiber networks, as well as access to digital services.

Internet penetration in Malawi stood at 18% at the end of 2025, according to DataReportal. No agreement has yet been signed between the two parties.

source : www.ecofinagency.com

Ghana’s Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George has secured a commitment from Huawei Technologies to provide free artificial intelligence training for 3,000 girls enrolled in the government’s Girls in ICT Programme, following talks at the Mobile World Congress (MWC26) in Barcelona, Spain.

The minister met with Steven Yi, Senior Vice President of Huawei, on the sidelines of the annual MWC Barcelona 2026 congress, which opened on Monday, March 2, with Huawei among the prominent technology firms showcasing their latest products and AI solutions.

According to the minister, Huawei expressed strong interest in Ghana’s technology investment pipeline, including the planned $250 million AI Compute Centre, the rollout of 5G infrastructure, and rural telephony expansion. Nartey George said he made it clear to the company that access to those opportunities came with an expectation of social investment in return.

“With Huawei coming on board, we are going to have a crash programme in AI skills,” the minister said, explaining that girls who complete the training would then be channelled directly into the government’s One Million Coders Programme for further development. “This means we are catching them young.”

The minister said Huawei’s Senior Vice President had already directed the company’s Ghana office to work with the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) and the ministry to roll out the AI training module for this year’s cohort of participants.

The Girls in ICT Programme has trained 17,981 girls and 1,792 teachers since its inception in 2012, with current modules covering basic computing, coding, animation, web development, and cybersecurity across a two-week residential format. The addition of an AI skills component marks the most significant expansion of the programme’s curriculum since its launch.

Huawei is already a key partner in Ghana’s One Million Coders Programme, where the company has committed to training 100,000 individuals over four years, covering the full cost through a blend of online learning, university-based sessions, and in-person training at Huawei’s headquarters in China.

Nartey George also disclosed that separate discussions were held with Huawei about the possibility of setting up a handheld device assembly plant in Ghana to produce affordable smartphones for the local and West African markets. He said Ghana’s political stability, gateway position, and investor-friendly environment made a strong case for hosting such a facility and that he had made clear to Huawei that quality and affordability would not be compromised.

The minister noted that despite Ghana having 4G coverage exceeding 90% of the population, actual 4G usage remains below 60%, largely because many Ghanaians cannot afford smartphones and continue to use feature phones incapable of accessing the network.

source : www.newsghana.com.gh

Huawei has announced that it has provided digital connectivity to 170 million people in remote areas across more than 80 countries, exceeding its pledge to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Partner2Connect (P2C) Digital Coalition. The company had committed in 2022 to connect 120 million people by 2025.

The announcement was made by Yang Chaobin, CEO of Huawei ICT BG, at the TECH Cares Forum in Barcelona, where he thanked Huawei’s telecom customers and partners for their collaborative efforts. The forum brought together around 80 guests from governments, industries, partner organizations, and international bodies to discuss advancing digital inclusion in the AI era.

“High-speed digital networks and robust computing capabilities are essential foundations for an inclusive and sustainable AI era.”

– Yang Chaobin, CEO, Huawei ICT BG

He highlighted that Huawei’s work brings improved access to healthcare, education, and financial services for remote communities.

Cosmas Zavazava, Director of the ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau, praised Huawei’s efforts, noting:

“Connecting the rural and underserved communities requires innovative business models, inclusivity and the effective use of communication resources as well as community engagement, and sustained investment in local capacity. I applaud Huawei’s commitment to universal and meaningful connectivity and I am proud of our strong and successful partnership.”

– Cosmas Zavazava, Director, ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau

To address the digital skills gap, Huawei has partnered with governments and organizations through initiatives such as Skills on Wheels, which has trained over 130,000 people in 21 countries since 2019, supporting youth, women, and underserved communities in digital literacy and STEM education.

Marina Madale, Executive of Sustainability and Shared Value at MTN Group, highlighted the importance of rural connectivity, device affordability, and AI-ready skills, calling connectivity “foundational infrastructure for Africa’s growth.”

Huawei has also advanced rural network innovation, continuously upgrading its Rural Series solutions since 2017. The recently launched RuralCow solution, supported by MTN Nigeria, extends coverage to villages of around 1,500 residents, contributing to the achievement of the 170 million connected individuals while supporting local economic development.

The TECH Cares Forum concluded with all participants emphasizing the need for continued collaboration among governments, operators, international organizations, and enterprises to advance digital inclusion. Huawei reaffirmed its commitment to driving innovation in rural networks, expanding open partnerships, and accelerating digital skills empowerment to foster a more equitable and sustainable digital world.

SOURCE : www.techafricanews.com