The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Mr Samuel Nartey George, has called on African nations to strengthen unity and coordinated action in advancing ICT standardisation, as the continent prepares for the World Telecommunication Standardisation Assembly 2028 (WTSA-28).
Opening the First African Preparatory Meeting in Accra on Monday, the Minister stressed Africa’s growing influence in global ICT governance, recalling that during WTSA-24, the continent submitted 37 common proposals, 34 of which were adopted, including resolutions on Artificial Intelligence, the Metaverse, and International Telecommunication Union (ITU) strategic planning.
Mr George added that Africa also secured 29 leadership positions within the ITU.
“Our main technical priorities are bridging the digital divide through rural broadband, enhancing cybersecurity, promoting affordable connectivity with infrastructure sharing, and promoting safe, inclusive advancement of AI and Internet of Things,” he said.
The National Communication Authority (NCA) Director-General, Rev. Ing. Edmund Y. Fianko, noted the relevance of the gathering as it coincides with the Authority’s 30th anniversary, reflecting three decades of regulatory leadership.
He emphasised Ghana’s growing role in ICT regulation, citing the establishment of Type Approval, Conformance Laboratories and continued partnership with the ITU in building capacity across Africa.
The African Telecommunication Union Secretary-General, John Omo, stressed that while mobile ownership in Africa continues to grow, meaningful connectivity remains limited, adding that although 66% of individuals aged 10 and above owned mobile phones in 2024, active mobile broadband usage remains low, with affordability and service quality still major barriers.
He said that discussions on Over-the-Top services are relevant to ensuring accessible, reliable, and affordable digital services across the continent.
The meeting, hosted by the National Communications Authority (NCA) in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the African Telecommunications Union (ATU), runs from April 13–17, 2026. It coincides with workshops on OTT services, emergency communication systems, and sessions of ITU-T Study Groups for Africa.
Margaret Adjeley Sowah, ISD
