Artificial Intelligence: MTN Ghana CEO Tips Ghana to Take the Lead

The Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, has expressed confidence that Ghana can position itself as a leader in Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the African continent, provided the right policies, infrastructure, and inclusive digital access are put in place.

Speaking at the 2025 GSMA Digital Africa Summit in Accra, Mr. Blewett noted that Ghana’s growing pool of young, tech-savvy citizens and the country’s responsiveness to digital policy
execution creates fertile ground for AI-driven innovation.

Stephen Blewett said, “I’ve been thinking about how Ghana can play a leadership role, particularly
in the field of Artificial Intelligence. Perhaps we can even call it GAIL: Ghana AI Leadership.

I genuinely believe Ghana has what it takes to lead in this space. But for that to happen, we need
robust networks, the right tools, and widespread access to digital technologies,” he said.

The MTN Ghana CEO stressed that the conversation on digital transformation must go beyond
infrastructure. While building networks is crucial, he noted that access to affordable devices
remains a pressing challenge, as millions of people risk being excluded from the opportunities of
digitalisation and AI with the right devices.

Citing the 2025 GSMA research, Mr. Blewett highlighted that 62% of people are still not fully
connected, a gap that needs urgent attention from policymakers and industry players alike.

On spectrum, he emphasized that certainty and clarity around rollout timelines and government
policy are essential to giving operators the confidence to invest in long-term digital growth.
“From an operator’s perspective, spectrum is critical.

We need timely access, clear deployment plans, and well-defined expectations. These have been communicated to us, and that’s encouraging, especially from an investment standpoint. But beyond investor confidence, the most important thing is ensuring our customers enjoy the best possible service. That is our ultimate responsibility,” he stated.

The GSMA Digital Africa Summit convened policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders to
discuss the continent’s digital future, with a focus on connectivity, affordability, Artificial
Intelligence, and sustainable reforms.

READ ALSO: Ministry Launches Girls-In-ICT Training of Trainers in Upper West Region (Wa)

The summit also saw the launch of the 2025 GSMA Digital Economy Report Ghana, which
highlights the pivotal role of digitalisation in Ghana’s economic transformation.

The report estimates that adopting digital technologies across sectors such as agriculture, trade,
manufacturing and government could unlock billions in additional value, create hundreds of
thousands of jobs and expand financial inclusion.

Attendees at the summit included Hon. Samuel Nartey George, Ghana’s Minister for
Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Nompilo Morafo, MTN Group Chief
Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer as well as other Executives of MTN Ghana and other
key industry players.

About MTN Ghana
MTN Ghana is the market leader in the mobile telecommunications industry in Ghana, offering
subscribers a range of exciting options under Pay As You Go, Pay Monthly and Mobile Financial
Services. The company is part of the MTN Group which is a leading emerging market leader with a
clear vision to lead the delivery of a bold new digital world to our customers. We are inspired by
our belief that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern connected life. Scancom PLC is listed
on the Ghana Stock Exchange. Our strategy is Ambition 2025: Leading digital solutions for
Africa’s progress.