Ghana’s Tourism Sector Set for Growth with MTN’s Network Expansion Program, Get the Details Here

Published on December 12, 2025

MTN Ghana is taking bold steps to address the challenges of poor telecommunication coverage in various under-resourced tourist destinations across the country. The company, through this initiative, is set to improve network connectivity in most rural and remote settings, mainly in the middle belt of Ghana, covering Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo. This initiative should help increase connectivity at different tourist sites, thereby making it easier for tourists to enjoy their experiences and for the local communities to benefit more economically from the potential of tourism.

Improving Visitor Experience Through Better Connectivity
The lack of reliable telecommunication services in these underserved regions has been a persistent problem for Ghana’s tourism sector. As tourism becomes an increasingly important industry in the country, the need to address these connectivity issues is critical. Tourists expect seamless access to information, easy navigation, and the ability to share their experiences in real time. The absence of these services can significantly detract from the overall visitor experience, resulting in dissatisfaction and limiting the potential of local communities to fully capitalize on tourism.

Nii Adotey Mingle, the General Manager for MTN’s Northern Business District, explained how the company plans to address this issue as part of its broader network expansion program for 2026–2027. During a recent media and stakeholder engagement session in Sunyani, Mingle shared that MTN is compiling a list of all tourist sites located in underserved areas and will evaluate which sites are feasible for immediate connection. This will be followed by a phased expansion to ensure that other areas benefit from improved connectivity over time. Mingle expressed the company’s commitment to creating a robust digital infrastructure that supports sustainable tourism and digital transformation in Ghana.

The Economic Impact: How Connectivity Drives Tourism and Local Growth
The improved telecommunication network will have a far-reaching impact on both the tourism industry and local communities. By providing better connectivity, MTN is helping to bridge the gap between tourists and local businesses, creating opportunities for greater interaction and engagement. Tourists will be able to make bookings, get real-time information, and share their experiences online, which in turn will boost the visibility of local attractions and businesses.

In regions like Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo, where tourism activities are still developing, the expansion of mobile coverage is expected to create new economic opportunities. Local tourism operators will be able to reach a wider audience, including international travelers, and provide better services. For instance, the ability to make digital payments will not only make transactions more efficient but will also enhance the overall customer experience, increasing visitor satisfaction and repeat visits. Additionally, improved connectivity will support the growth of tourism infrastructure, making it easier for tourists to navigate the region and discover hidden gems.

MTN’s Commitment to Digital Transformation and Sustainability
MTN Ghana has made significant investments in the country’s digital infrastructure, recognizing that a stable and reliable network is essential to the success of the tourism industry. Over the past five years, MTN has invested a staggering US$1 billion to reinforce Ghana’s telecommunications infrastructure. This includes a substantial investment of US$240 million earmarked for 2025, which will be used to expand fibre-optic capacity and enhance both 4G and 5G services across the country.

Jemima Kotei-Walsh, MTN Ghana’s Chief Customer Experience Officer, emphasized that these investments are not merely network upgrades but the backbone of Ghana’s digital economy. “These are the digital rails that support Ghana’s economic growth,” Kotei-Walsh stated. By focusing on providing robust telecom services across the country, MTN is enabling digital transformation, which is vital for industries such as tourism, education, and healthcare.

In addition to its focus on telecommunications, MTN has also made sustainability a core aspect of its operations. In April 2025, the company launched Project Zero, aimed at reducing its environmental impact and transitioning to cleaner, more energy-efficient operations. MTN has already made strides by switching its head office and data centers to solar power, as well as introducing electric vehicles into its fleet. These efforts are aligned with MTN’s broader Net Zero 2040 agenda, ensuring that the company’s growth is environmentally responsible and sustainable.

The Impact of MTN’s Efforts on Tourism Safety and Convenience
One of the key benefits of MTN’s network expansion is improved safety for tourists. In the past, weak network signals have posed challenges for tourists needing assistance or trying to contact emergency services. With the expanded network, visitors will be able to make emergency calls, access information, and communicate more easily, thus improving their overall safety. This will be especially important in rural and remote areas, where access to assistance is often limited due to poor network coverage.

Furthermore, by enabling digital services like mobile payments, MTN is enhancing the convenience of travel for both tourists and locals. Tourists will no longer need to carry large sums of cash, and they will be able to make payments for services like transportation, accommodations, and local attractions using their mobile phones. This development aligns with global trends toward cashless societies and improves the overall travel experience for international visitors who are more accustomed to using digital payment methods.

Bridging the Gap Between Tourism and Technology

MTN’s various investments in digital infrastructure and sustainability enable the tourism industry in Ghana to adapt and grow in a digitally driven world. As this network expansion program continues to roll out, more and more tourists will be able to travel around Ghana’s beautiful and diverse regions with greater ease and confidence, boosting the country’s status as a top African destination.