By Love Wilhelmina Abanonave
Minister for Communications, Digital Innovation and Technology, Samuel Nartey George, says President John Dramani Mahama is committed to resolving major challenges in the communications sector through dialogue between government and industry stakeholders.
“Today’s ceremony marks an important milestone in our collective efforts to ensure the long-term sustainability, efficiency and effective governance of Ghana’s digital terrestrial television platform. It also demonstrates what can be achieved when governments and industry stakeholders engage in open, transparent dialogue with mutual respect and a shared commitment to finding impactful solutions to our national challenges,” Mr. George stated.
The Minister recalled during the presentation sof the final DTT Committee report on Thursday, July 9, that Ghana’s successful migration from analogue to digital television broadcasting was a significant achievement in the country’s digital transformation journey.
“The successful migration from analogue to digital television broadcasting represented a significant achievement in Ghana’s digital transformation journey. Beyond fulfilling an international obligation, it laid the foundation for more efficient spectrum utilisation, expanded access to quality broadcasting services and enhanced opportunities for innovation within the broadcasting sector,” he said. He noted that the switch to DTT was expected to deliver better picture quality, more channels, and free up spectrum for other telecommunications services.
However, Mr. George cautioned that infrastructure alone is not enough, stressing that the long-term success of the DTT platform will depend on how well it is managed and maintained stating that “the issues before us goes beyond channel fees, they include ownership, governance, institutional responsibilities, service quality and a sustainable financing framework for the DTT platform”.
He disclosed, “over the years, concerns have emerged regarding the operational sustainability of the DTT platform.” Mr. George emphasised that solving the challenges will require continued partnership between the Ministry, regulators, broadcasters, and technology providers.
The DTT platform was introduced to replace analogue TV and to align Ghana with the International Telecommunication Union’s deadline for digital migration. It is managed by Ghana’s national DTT operator and is expected to expand access to digital content, especially in rural areas.