Friday, 05 September

Comm. Min. Sam George says, AT not merging with or being acquired by Telecel

News
Sam George

AT Ghana and Telecel Ghana are not merging nor is the latter acquiring the former, the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has explained.

He clarified what was happening was rather a partnership via a national roaming agreement instructed by the National Communications Authority (NCA) as part of a temporary regulatory intervention to protect AT's over three million subscribers.

He spoke at a press briefing in Accra, Friday, September 5, 2025.

He revealed that tower operator ATC Ghana had recently been compelled to disconnect power to AT's sites nationwide because since 2020, the telecommunications company had defaulted on recurring charges and accumulated debts owed to ATC which had, as of September 1, had grown to over US$150 million. 

Thus, it was this national roaming agreement, he emphasised, which had so far kept all AT services functional via Telecel, caveating, however, some AT users may have some inconveniences during this time.

He added, “What is happening and playing out is not a merger and neither is it an acquisition. Government urges all stakeholders, including subscribers, tower companies, suppliers and creditors, to await the outcome of the transaction advisor's work, which will provide clarity on outstanding debts, services and the future of AT Ghana.”

On AT's future, Mr George said KPMG had been appointed as the transaction advisor, and was expected to provide recommendations on restoring balance to Ghana's telecom market within 60 days. He indicated KPMG would also review Ghana's shareholding in Telecel, too.

Communication Minister George acknowledged the integration efforts of AT and Telecel's technical teams, noting it was a testament to the capabilities of local engineers, and gave his word that all 300 permanent staff of AT Ghana will keep their jobs, as over 200 contract staff underwent review.

Source: classfmonline.com