The National Communications Authority (NCA) has held its annual World Telecommunication and Information Society Day ceremony to raise awareness about the power of communication and information technologies in driving global development and bridging the digital divide.
The event, held on Monday in Accra, celebrated with the theme: “Gender Equality and Digital Transformation,” and highlighted the importance of empowering women and girls in the digital landscape.
In his welcome address, the Acting Director General, NCA, Rev Ing. Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko, emphasised the authority’s commitment to enhancing the communications sector through a consultative approach to policy implementation, particularly regarding spectrum allocation and data tariffs.
He urged industry stakeholders to provide timely feedback on recent consultation papers regarding spectrum assignments, stating, “Your insights are invaluable as we strive to create a more efficient and responsive communications framework.”
Mr Fianko highlighted the NCA’s focus on consumer protection, mentioning initiatives to improve the quality of service, monitor billing accuracy, and manage consumer complaints.
He reiterated the need for service providers to address consumer issues promptly and cautioned that non-responsiveness would lead to sanctions.
Addressing significant challenges, he noted the impact of fibre cuts on service quality and called for public support in identifying suitable sites for telecommunication towers to improve mobile coverage.
He stated, “The closer you are to a site, the better your mobile service will be. We need your cooperation to improve coverage and service quality.”
The Acting Director noted that the NCA will be collaborating with the Ghana Standards Authority to establish standards for the deployment of fibre optic cables, aiming to enhance service reliability.
Mr Fianko expressed gratitude to President Mahama for the opportunity to serve and acknowledged the support from industry stakeholders.
The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, emphasised the rising internet usage among women and girls, which presents both opportunities and risks and called for increased vigilance to protect them from cybercrimes.
She highlighted various government initiatives, including the establishment of the National Cyber Security Centre and the launch of the National Safer Digital Campaign, aimed at fostering a safer online environment.
“Our commitment to enhancing digital rights and promoting technological empowerment for women and girls is unwavering,” she added.
The Minister declared her ministry’s commitment to strengthening legal frameworks for online protection and urged collective efforts to ensure that digital resources enhance the education and well-being of girls and women.
On his part, the Minister for Communication Digital Technology and Innovation, Mr Samuel Nartey George highlighted the urgent need for inclusivity in the digital landscape and the importance of empowering women and girls.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to initiatives like “Girls in ICT,” aimed at equipping young women with essential skills in STEM fields and urged all stakeholders to invest in the future of girls.
Mr George addressed the systemic barriers that have historically hindered women’s participation in the digital economy. He proposed a focused approach in three key areas, including enhancing digital education and mentorship, expanding infrastructure and access, and ensuring women’s representation in leadership roles.
The Minister emphasised the importance of collaboration in fostering an inclusive digital future, urging everyone to work together to eliminate the gender gap in technology.
