Sam George courts Chinese tech firms, pushes for local phone manufacturing

The Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to deepening partnerships with Chinese technology firms to drive Ghana’s digital transformation agenda.

This follows a courtesy call on the Minister by China’s Ambassador to Ghana, Cong Song, at his office in Accra.

The meeting focused on strengthening Ghana–China cooperation, particularly in the areas of digital infrastructure and innovation-led development.

Samuel Nartey George noted that government remains intentional about collaborating with leading Chinese firms, including Huawei, describing such partnerships as critical to accelerating the country’s digital growth.

He disclosed that efforts are underway to attract more Chinese investment into Ghana’s technology space, especially in local manufacturing.

As part of this, the Minister proposed the establishment of mobile phone assembly and manufacturing plants in Ghana to serve both domestic demand and the wider West African market.

The discussions also covered key areas of cooperation, including the expansion of the Rural Telephony Project to extend connectivity to underserved communities, the rollout of 5G infrastructure, and the upgrade of the National Data Center to support increasing data needs.

George further indicated Ghana’s readiness to play an active role in Global South–South collaboration on digital infrastructure, aimed at promoting inclusive and sustainable technological development.

He also welcomed China’s hosting of the upcoming World Radiocommunication Conference, describing it as a critical platform for international cooperation in spectrum management and digital innovation.

For his part, Ambassador Cong Song commended the Minister’s leadership in advancing Ghana’s digital agenda and strengthening bilateral ties.

He reaffirmed China’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Ghana, particularly in emerging technologies, and sustaining the long-standing relationship between the two countries for mutual benefit.