The Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, has stated that efforts are in progress to formulate local content legislation for the telecommunications sector.

“We are in the process of passing local content legislation for the telecommunications sector and have directed that certain categories of managed services in the telecom sector should be reserved for local Ghanaian companies only,” she noted.

She mentioned that the initiative is geared towards strengthening the country's capacity to oversee its digital infrastructure, applications, and services autonomously, diminishing dependence on expensive foreign consultants and contractors.

The minister emphasized the existence of proficient local alternatives, emphasizing the potential for sustainable growth and development within the sector.

“That is the only way to build our capacity to manage our own digital infrastructure, applications and services. We have to wean ourselves of unhealthy dependence on expensive foreign consultants and contractors when we have competent local alternatives.

“Many of these foreign companies outsource their contracts to local entities and pocket the huge profits… of course, those who benefit from the current system and their collaborators will protest that we must put the interest of the country and our collective development first instead of some misguided, short-term, individual benefit,” she noted.

Support for indigenous companies

The minister revealed this during the formal inauguration of Dynamic Data Solutions Limited (dds55), an information communication technology company, in Accra.

She emphasized the importance of backing indigenous companies, especially in the realm of information technology (IT).

She emphasized that the advancement of the nation depends not solely on foreign investments and multinational corporations, but also on the advancement and empowerment of local enterprises.

In pursuit of this objective, she expressed that besides intentional government policies to supplement their endeavors, there must be a collective change in attitude towards quality and acceptance, as well as encouragement for local products, to strengthen indigenous businesses.

“We must rewire our collective mindset. The notion that anything Ghanaian is inferior while everything foreign is superior must be challenged. Let us champion our own, not just in words but also in our choices, preferences and spending habits. If we do not support made-in-Ghana goods and companies, how can we expect others to do so?

“Also, we recognise that quality may not be top-notch initially. However, we must exhibit healthy tolerance and patience. Supporting local industries means nurturing their growth. It is not mediocrity; it’s confidence-building for our Ghanaian businesses,” the minister explained.

“Remember the ‘Buy Made-in-Ghana’ campaign? It’s time to breathe new life into it. Let us consciously choose Ghanaian services and products – whether it’s clothing, food or technology. By doing so, we create demand, encourage innovation and strengthen our economy,” she concluded.