Ghana is targeting full migration from analogue to digital television by the second quarter of 2026, according to the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation. The move promises improved picture and sound quality for viewers—but a key hurdle remains: over GH¢82 million in import duties on set-top boxes locked in warehouses.
Speaking at the Broadcasting at the Crossroads Forum, sector Minister Sam Nartey George acknowledged the delays but expressed confidence that the government has found a solution.
“We have not completed the digital switchover because of some issues I inherited—particularly the procurement and storage of set-top boxes. These boxes are stuck in warehouses due to unpaid duties amounting to more than GH¢82 million,” the Minister explained.
He added that the government has now identified a path forward and is working closely with the National Communications Authority (NCA) to complete necessary preparations for distribution.
“Once the boxes are cleared and distributed, we can proceed with the digital switchover. My hope is that by the end of Q2 2026, the distribution will be complete, allowing us to officially switch over,” Mr. George said.
The Minister reiterated government’s commitment to achieving the long-delayed digital migration, despite Ghana missing earlier deadlines set under the ECOWAS framework.
As the forum concluded, Mr. George praised the organisers for fostering critical dialogue within the broadcasting sector but urged them to go beyond discussion.
“We need tangible outcomes from this forum. A detailed workshop report must be produced—not to sit on shelves—but to inform the creation of a technical working group involving the NCA, GIBA, NMC, AMB, and other key stakeholders,” he emphasized.
The government says this working group will review all issues raised at the forum and propose actionable steps to support the digital transition and broader broadcasting sector reforms.
