AT Ghana–Telecel restructuring is not a merger or acquisition – Minister

Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has firmly dismissed media reports describing the ongoing restructuring involving AT Ghana and Telecel Ghana as a merger.

Addressing a press conference in Accra on Friday, September 5, 2025, the Minister emphasised that the situation is not a consolidation or acquisition, but rather a force majeure intervention requiring strategic government action.

“Let me be absolutely clear, this is not a merger and it is not an acquisition, we are dealing with a force majeure situation. The transaction advisor has been engaged to guide the process, and their report will determine the appropriate next steps for government consideration,” Mr George stated.

His comments follow public confusion after the Ministry announced efforts to restructure AT Ghana (formerly AirtelTigo) and Telecel Ghana to create a more resilient telecommunications entity.

While the move may suggest integration, Mr. George stressed that the legal and operational context is entirely different from a standard business merger.

At a recent staff durbar, the Minister also reassured employees that no job losses would result from the restructuring.

“This is not a re-application exercise. All current employees will be retained under their existing contracts unless they choose to exit voluntarily,” he told staff.

He further emphasised that customer interests, particularly those of AT Ghana subscribers, will be fully protected throughout the process.

Mr. George called for calm and patience from all stakeholders, including employees, subscribers, tower companies, suppliers, and creditors, urging them to await the final report from the transaction advisors.

“The report will provide clarity on key issues such as AT Ghana’s outstanding debt, service continuity, and the company’s long-term future. Until then, speculation only creates unnecessary panic,” he said.