The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Mr. Samuel Nartey George, has called for urgent and inclusive digital reforms to tackle the persistent gender inequality in digital access and participation.

Speaking at the 2025 World Telecommunication and Information Society Day celebration in Accra, Mr. George highlighted the digital gender divide with sobering statistics:

“Globally, 62% of men are online compared to 57% of women. In Least Developed Countries, only 30% of women have internet access. Women represent just 20% of ICT professionals and are 7% less likely to own a mobile phone than men. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the mobile internet gender gap stands at 32%.”

He stressed that digital transformation cannot be considered gender-neutral, warning that excluding women from the digital economy undermines progress and limits development potential.

“It is time to move beyond mere rhetoric. We must act with intention—through smart policy, targeted investments, and strong partnerships—to empower women and girls in the digital space,” he said.

Mr. George reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to the Girls-in-ICT Programme, which he described as a strategic initiative to equip young girls with STEM and digital skills—not as a charitable gesture, but as an investment in the nation’s future.

He further urged both public and private sector stakeholders to take deliberate steps to eliminate barriers that hinder women's access to digital tools and platforms. Creating a safer, more inclusive digital environment, he noted, is critical for ensuring equal opportunity.

Also addressing the gathering, Rev. Ing. Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko, Acting Director General of the National Communications Authority (NCA), disclosed that the Minister has outlined key policy directions for the communications sector aimed at driving innovation and equity.

Rev. Fianko stated that the NCA will take a consultative approach to implementing these policy measures, fostering collaboration with industry players and stakeholders to ensure effective execution.