Prime News Ghana

Sam George inaugurates new board of NCA

By Vincent Ashitey
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Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has inaugurated a new governing board for the National Communications Authority (NCA), urging members to fast-track Ghana’s digital transformation and reclaim the nation’s leading role in Africa’s telecommunications industry.

The brief swearing-in ceremony, held at the Ministry in Accra, marked a historic moment as Mrs. Mavis Araba Ampaa became the first female Chairperson of the NCA. She joins eight other distinguished professionals drawn from communications, technology, academia, and governance backgrounds.

The board members are:

  1. Mrs. Mavis Araba Ampaa – Chairperson
  2. Mohammed Adam Sukpara (MP) – Deputy Minister, Member
  3. Mr. Edmond Yirenkyi Fianko – Director-General of NCA, Member
  4. Dr. Mahama Seth Sayibu – Member
  5. Mr. George Sarpong – Member
  6. Madam Augustina Yaa Oye Odame – Member
  7. Dr. Bishop Selasi Agyin Asare – Member
  8. Mrs. Barbara Serwaa Asamoah – Member
  9. Mr. George Atta Boateng – Member

Administering the Oath of Office and Oath of Secrecy, George congratulated the new board and encouraged them to begin work immediately, pointing out that the NCA board was the last to be constituted under the new administration nine months after taking office.

“We are finalizing a new Electronic Communications Act that will redefine Ghana’s digital landscape. You are coming in at a crucial moment to help us complete that transition and position Ghana for 5G deployment and readiness for 5G adoption,” he said.

The Minister expressed concern about Ghana’s delayed rollout of 5G technology, noting that the country, once a leader in 3G and 4G deployment, now risks lagging behind. He therefore tasked the board to focus on improving spectrum efficiency, service quality, and user experience.

“We’ve tackled data pricing and affordability; the next challenge is quality of experience. Citizens must feel the impact of our policies through faster, more reliable internet. That’s the legacy I want us to deliver,” he emphasized.

Sam George also reminded the board to maintain the distinction between policy oversight and administrative operations, stressing that daily management remains the duty of the Director-General and his deputies.

He explained that the inauguration of the new NCA board forms part of a broader plan to strengthen Ghana’s digital economy and innovation agenda, including expanding broadband access, improving connectivity, and promoting digital literacy across the country.

The Minister further announced that 2026 will mark the NCA’s 30th anniversary, to be celebrated with major international events such as an African Telecommunications Union (ATU) and International Telecommunication Union (ITU) conference, positioning Ghana as a hub for digital advancement.

He expressed confidence in the newly inaugurated board, describing it as diverse, skilled, and forward-thinking, and assured them of continuous policy support from the Ministry.

“Our work directly impacts the lives of Ghanaians, from the data they use to the calls they make. Let’s make this sector one of the shining examples of the Mahama administration,” he concluded.

In her remarks, Mrs. Mavis Ampaa thanked the President and the Minister for the trust placed in her and the board, pledging to uphold the values of integrity, innovation, and teamwork in advancing the Authority’s goals.

“This board represents a blend of experience, technical expertise, and public service commitment. We will work closely with the Ministry and management to strengthen regulatory oversight, enhance service delivery, and ensure that Ghana’s communications infrastructure meets global standards,” she said.

Mrs. Ampaa added that the board will focus on spectrum management, consumer protection, and supporting the industry’s transition toward 5G and other emerging technologies.