Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, has disclosed that he contemplated a temporary nationwide internet shutdown in the aftermath of the August 6 helicopter crash, in a bid to control the circulation of graphic videos on social media.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Mr. George described the days following the tragedy as emotionally turbulent, noting a blend of grief and urgent responsibility. He commended Ghana’s major telecom providers—MTN, Telecel, and AirtelTigo—for their swift collaboration during the crisis.
“The period after the tragedy was a mixed experience for me,” he said. “Let me thank the telecom companies—MTN, Telecel, and AirtelTigo—for their incredible cooperation.”
Mr. George explained that he was alarmed by the rapid spread of disturbing videos, particularly on WhatsApp, a platform he emphasized operates outside the control of national authorities.
“I got a call when those videos started going viral,” he recounted. “Unfortunately, most were circulating on WhatsApp—a platform owned by Meta and not subject to government regulation. My concern was for the families, especially children and spouses of the victims who could have come across the footage online.”
Faced with this dilemma, the Minister said his team weighed two tough options: one being a complete internet shutdown.
“One option was to pull the plug on the internet, make a public statement, and allow space for families to be informed properly and with sensitivity,” he revealed. “But that would have had far-reaching consequences—news delivery would be disrupted, and it could trigger public panic or backlash.”
Ultimately, the government chose a more targeted approach. Mr. George said he initiated urgent communication with Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, to explore possible interventions. He contacted senior Meta executives and activated a point-of-contact within the company to address the issue.
Simultaneously, the Ministry collaborated with the National Communications Authority (NCA) and local telecom operators to push out mass public messages urging responsible media sharing.
“We sent out over 30 million text messages in just two hours,” the Minister said, noting that telecom operators absorbed the cost. “The NCA coordinated with all CEOs of the telcos, and we issued messages calling for restraint in sharing graphic content.”
He added that all public advisories from the Ministry were funded entirely by the telecom companies as part of their national responsibility during the crisis.
