Collins Sefa Ghana’s digital transformation drive could inject more than GH¢40 billion into the economy over the next four years, create nearly 440,000 jobs, and boost tax revenues by GH¢6 billion, according to a new report by the GSMA.
The study, Driving Digital Transformation of the Economy in Ghana (Sept 2025), identifies agriculture, industry, trade, transport and government services as the main beneficiaries of digital adoption.
Job Creation and Fiscal Impact
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Agriculture: Precision farming and mobile-based services could generate GH¢10.5bn and 190,000 jobs.
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Industry: Cloud, AI and automation may add GH¢15bn and 110,000 jobs.
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Trade: E-commerce platforms expected to bring GH¢5.1bn and 60,000 jobs.
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Transport: Digital port systems and customs automation could yield GH¢4.3bn and 80,000 jobs.
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Government services: Tax and social protection digitalisation projected at GH¢5.8bn.
The fiscal dividend is also substantial, with over GH¢6bn in tax revenues expected by 2029, driven mainly by agriculture and industry.
Reset Agenda and Policy Push
Digitalisation is central to government’s RESET agenda for a “digitally inclusive and data-driven economy.” Key initiatives include:
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Repeal of the E-Levy
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Launch of the One Million Coders Programme
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Drafting of the National Digital Transformation and Emerging Technology Strategy
The GSMA urged government to cut sector-specific taxes, improve spectrum allocation, and modernise telecom regulations.
Telecom Sector Consolidation
As part of reforms, government is facilitating the merger of AT Ghana and Telecel Ghana to compete against MTN’s 75% market dominance. The integration will safeguard 300 jobs, migrate over 3.2 million subscribers, and attract US$600m investment over four years.
Ghana’s Digital Positioning
The GSMA ranked Ghana ahead of Nigeria and Rwanda in its Digital Nations and Society Index, highlighting strengths in mobile money, digital government, and telecom infrastructure.
However, challenges remain:
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Only 37% of Ghanaians use mobile internet despite near-universal 3G/4G coverage.
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Market imbalances favor MTN.
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Rural connectivity gaps persist.
Investment Imperatives
Operators are expected to invest US$150m this year to improve networks. Long-term success will depend on a clear spectrum roadmap, reforms to the Universal Service Fund, and expanded rural connectivity.
The GSMA concluded that Ghana is well-placed to become West Africa’s leading digital hub, but progress requires bold reforms, sustained investment, and wider inclusion.
