Sam George Big Plans, Vision For The Communication Ministry

The Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram and Minister of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations in the Mahama administration, Samuel Nartey George, popularly referred to as ‘Gyata’ has outlined his big plans, vision and strategic steps he seeks to take in addressing various problems in the communication industry.

First on the list for him is the reduction of data cost for all Ghanaians, which he has indicated his commitment to work on it assiduously, expressing confidence that Ghanaians will begin to see changes before the end of the year.

He made this known in an interview on Newsfile on JoyNews’ last Saturday, adding that, he had already given directives to the management of the Communication Ministry to begin the process, with the committee expected to be set up within the next 14 days.

“Yesterday, I met the director and management of the ministry, and I’ve given them the running order. Hopefully, within the next 14 days, we’ll be setting up an inter-ministerial committee to look at the cost of data. At my vetting, I said that it is my fervent belief that before the end of this year, we should see some movements in the data offerings” he stated.

He further explained in a Facebook post after the interview, “In the coming days, a team to discuss and chart a road map that works for everyone involved would be out doored. The focus would be to find common grounds that are representative of the needs of the citizens, industry and govt. The team would have representation from the Ministries of Communication, Digital Technology & Innovation, Energy, Finance, NCA, PURC, Ghana Chamber of Telecommunication, NUGS, Association of Content Creators amongst others. It is my hope that the team would achieve a workable plan that sees an increase in value on data offerings across board. Let’s engage and RESET our Country. Ghana goes truly DIGITAL!”

Sam George emphasized that his policy decisions as the sector minister will all be guided by engagement with key stakeholders, particularly telecom operators and industry regulators, adding that, an engagement with management from the relevant ministries had already been established to lay the groundwork for the formation of a committee that will assess and propose solutions to the issue.

“Even before I sat at my vetting to announce this as policy, I had engaged all the telecom CEOs. I’m going to be a minister who will engage industry. I won’t announce a policy without engaging industry and getting their buy-in,” he assured.

He further described his leadership approach as a reset for Ghana’s digital economy, ensuring that decisions are made in collaboration with industry players.

“I told them, it’s a new dawn. It’s a reset. And so I engaged personally, every single chief executive and the chamber as well to get their understanding of what I want to do and secure their buy-in before announcing it,” he added.

The proposed committee will explore two key approaches to address the issue in reducing the price of data or increasing the value offerings for consumers.

“There are two modules here, you can either have a reduction in price of data or an increase in value offerings. We are going to look to look at those modules,” he said.

In another development, the fifth cohort of the Executive Masters of Conflict, Peace, and Security (EMCPS) at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) has congratulated Hon. Sam Nartey George on his appointment.

In a statement, the EMCPS5 group hailed the Ningo-Prampram legislator’s leadership and commitment to national development, expressing confidence in his ability to spearhead Ghana’s digital transformation.

EMCPS5, described Sam George as a “visionary leader” with the ability to navigate complex challenges.

Read full statement below:

The fifth cohort of the Executive Masters of Conflict, Peace, and Security (EMCPS) at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) is thrilled to extend its heartfelt congratulations to our distinguished classmate, Hon. Sam Nartey George, on his well-deserved nomination by the President of the Republic of Ghana and the subsequent swearing-in as Ghana’s Minister of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations.

Hon. Sam Nartey George’s sterling leadership, dedication, passion, and commitment to national development earned him this esteemed appointment. As an astute legislator, advocate for digital transformation and technophile, the EMCPS 5 cohort trusts that his wealth of experience in governance and policy formulation will bring about the much-needed digital revolution and propel Ghana’s agenda in areas such as improved digital infrastructure, digital skill development, cybersecurity, and data protection.

The EMCPS5 class celebrates this well-deserved recognition and remains confident in Hon. Sam’s ability to drive digital innovation, enhance connectivity, and strengthen Ghana’s position in the global technological landscape.

Speaking on behalf of the class, Dr Emmanuel Hopeson a member of EMCPS5, expressed his joy, stating, “Hon. Sam is a good, dynamic visionary and a kind-hearted leader. His passion for national progress and ability to navigate complex challenges with strategic insight make him the right person for this role. We have no doubt that he will make a lasting impact.”

As Hon. Sam Nartey George embarks on this challenging but exciting chapter, the EMCPS5 class stands in solidarity with him, offering our best wishes and unwavering support. We celebrate his achievement and anticipate his success in shaping Ghanas digital future.

Once again, congratulations, Hon. Sam Nartey George!