The Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations has officially announced plans to merge AT Ghana (formerly AirtelTigo) with Telecel Ghana.
The move is aimed at creating a more robust and financially viable telecommunications company.
The announcement was made during a staff durbar at AT Ghana’s headquarters in Accra, where Sector Minister Samuel Nartey George reassured employees that the merger will not result in job losses.
“This is not a re-application process. It is simply a continuation of your contracts. Every single employee will be absorbed unless you personally decide to leave,” the Minister stated.
George also assured that customer interests would be protected throughout the integration process, adding that the decision was driven by AT Ghana’s dire financial situation. The company reportedly suffered losses exceeding $10 million in the first eight months of the year, a burden the Minister said was no longer sustainable for the state to bear.
“These losses are covered by taxpayers’ money. That is revenue that should be going into roads, schools, and water systems. We cannot keep using public funds to support an operation that cannot sustain itself,” he explained.
According to the Ministry, the merger will help reduce operational costs, eliminate duplication, and improve efficiency in Ghana’s telecom industry.
“It is impractical for two operators to run separately on the same tower and both pay double while struggling. A merger is the smart and sustainable option,” George noted.
A phased approach has been adopted for the merger:
Technical Integration – Nearly completed, with national roaming already in effect. Over 3.2 million AT Ghana subscribers have been successfully integrated onto Telecel’s network, with a reported success rate of 98%.
Human Resource Alignment – Set to be finalized by the end of September, with all staff expected to be absorbed.
Commercial Restructuring – Will involve the establishment of a new business framework for the unified entity.
The new company is projected to require around $600 million in investment over the next four years. The government plans to contribute using funds from upcoming spectrum sales and is calling on Telecel and other stakeholders to provide additional financial support.
Currently, the government owns 100% of AT Ghana and holds a 30% stake in Telecel Ghana. Despite recent changes, both companies are still dealing with outstanding debts to suppliers and partners, even following Telecel’s acquisition of Vodafone Ghana.
The merger marks a significant restructuring move in Ghana’s telecom sector, with hopes of creating a more sustainable and competitive environment.
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