The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, has assured workers and customers of AT (formerly AirtelTigo) that their interests will remain safeguarded as government prepares to merge the company with Telecel Ghana.
Addressing staff at AT’s head office in Accra, the Minister announced that all 300 permanent employees will continue with the new entity without any loss of jobs.
“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 assured.
He explained that the decision to merge the two companies was driven by AT’s worsening financial position, disclosing that the operator has incurred losses of over $10 million in just eight months this year.
“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,” Hon. George stated.
The Minister stressed that consolidation will not only cut costs but also make the new company more competitive in the telecom industry.
“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 emphasized.
Hon. Sam George further noted that more than 3.2 million AT subscribers have already been moved onto Telecel’s network through a national roaming arrangement, which he described as “98% smooth.”
He outlined three stages for the full integration process:
Technical migration, which is nearly complete with roaming already in place.
Human resource alignment, ensuring that all employees are absorbed before the end of September. Commercial restructuring, expected to be finalized within 120 days to give the new company its framework.
The Minister also disclosed that sustaining the merged operator will require an investment of about $600 million over the next four years.
Government, he said, will contribute resources, including proceeds from spectrum sales, while Telecel and other partners are expected to co-invest.
According to him, the merger offers the most sustainable way forward, creating a stronger network that will serve customers better while easing the burden on public funds.
Source: ameyawdebrah.com/
