The Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations has confirmed plans to merge AT Ghana (formerly AirtelTigo) with Telecel Ghana in a bold move aimed at creating a stronger and more sustainable telecom operator in the country.
At a staff engagement session at AT Ghana’s Head Office in Accra, Minister Samuel Nartey George (MP) assured all 300 permanent employees of AT Ghana that their jobs will be protected under the new entity.
“This is not a re-application process. It is a continuation of your contracts. Every one of you will be absorbed, unless you personally choose to leave,” the Minister emphasized.
The Minister further assured that the interests of AT Ghana subscribers will be fully safeguarded throughout the transition.
Why the Merger is Necessary
According to the Ministry, the merger is being driven by AT Ghana’s precarious financial situation, with the company recording losses of over $10 million within just eight months this year. Mr. George explained that continuing to sustain such losses with public funds is unsustainable.
“These losses are funded by taxpayers. That is money that should be building roads, water systems, and schools. We cannot keep pouring public funds into unsustainable operations,” he noted.
By merging AT with Telecel, the government expects to cut costs, eliminate duplication, and strengthen competitiveness in the telecom sector.
“It makes no sense for two networks to operate separately on the same tower, both paying twice while both struggle. A merger is the smart and sustainable choice,” the Minister added.
Progress and Integration Plans
The Ministry revealed that more than 3.2 million AT Ghana subscribers have already been migrated onto Telecel’s network through a national roaming arrangement, which has been described as “98% smooth.”
The integration will be carried out in three phases:
- Technical Migration – almost complete, with national roaming already in place.
- Human Resource Alignment – ensuring all staff are absorbed before the end of September.
- Commercial Restructuring – to finalize the framework for the new merged operator.
Financing the New Telecom Entity
To sustain operations, the new operator will require about $600 million in investment over the next four years. The Minister disclosed that government will inject resources, including proceeds from spectrum sales, while also inviting Telecel and other strategic partners to co-invest.
Currently, the government holds 100% ownership of AT Ghana and 30% in Telecel Ghana. Despite Telecel’s acquisition of Vodafone Ghana, both companies have faced financial challenges, including debts to vendors and partners.
The Ministry says the merger will position the new operator as a competitive and sustainable telecom player in Ghana, capable of delivering better services to consumers while protecting jobs and ensuring long-term stability in the industry.
