The Government of Ghana has announced a merger between AT Ghana (formerly AirtelTigo) and Telecel Ghana to stop mounting financial losses and stabilise the struggling operator.
Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations Minister, Samuel Nartey George, disclosed at a staff engagement in Accra that AT Ghana had lost more than $10 million in just eight months this year, making it unsustainable for taxpayers to continue funding its operations.
“These losses are funded by taxpayers money that should be building roads, water systems, and schools. We cannot keep pouring public funds into unsustainable operations,” Mr George said.
The Minister assured all 300 permanent staff of AT Ghana that their jobs are safe under the new arrangement.
“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,” he emphasised.
He explained that the merger will cut costs, eliminate duplication, and strengthen competition 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,” he added.
Already, more than 3.2 million AT subscribers have been migrated onto Telecel’s network through national roaming, which the Ministry described as “98% smooth.”
The merger is being implemented in three phases: technical migration (nearly complete), human resource alignment (all staff to be absorbed by end of September), and commercial restructuring (final phase to establish the new entity).
Mr George noted that the new operator will require about $600 million in financing over the next four years.
Government will provide part of the funds, including proceeds from spectrum sales while Telecel and other investors are expected to co-invest.
Currently, the government owns 100% of AT Ghana and holds a 30% stake in Telecel Ghana.
Both operators, however, continue to face debt challenges despite Telecel’s acquisition of Vodafone Ghana.
Source: Myxyzonline.com
