300 permanent staff of AT will keep their jobs – Sam George assures

The Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel George Nartey, has assured that the approximately 300 permanent staff of AirtelTigo will retain their jobs.

The government has announced plans to restructure AT Ghana, formerly AirtelTigo, together with Telecel Ghana in what it describes as a necessary intervention to stem rising losses and create a stronger competitor in the telecom sector. The decision, according to the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, comes on the back of AT’s dire financial condition, which continues to weigh heavily on the state.

Speaking at a press briefing on Friday, September 5, he said the government is committed to protecting workers and ensuring stability during the ongoing restructuring process.

On the future of the staff of AT Ghana, he said, “The government will ensure that the approximately 300 permanent staff of AT retain their employment.”

“I repeat, they will retain their employment. There will be no job losses. I have already met with the staff and offered them assurances in this regard,” he added.

He further stated, “The transaction advisor has the instructions to also consider the fate of the over 200 contract staff of AT.”

Mr George expressed gratitude to the staff of AT Ghana for their conduct and openness during his engagement.

“I am fully aware of the gravity of the current situation for the workers, their families, and their dependents, but I remain committed on behalf of the government to protect them from any adverse situation. We will see sunshine very soon; it will happen,” he emphasised.

Clarifying the process, he said, “Let me be very clear, and I need to be very, very clear on this, because we have seen media reportage: this is not a merger; it is also not an acquisition. We are dealing with a force majeure situation, and the work of the transaction advisor and the recommendations from the report will lay out a clear path for government consideration. For emphasis, I repeat, what is happening is not a merger, and neither is it an acquisition.”

He concluded by urging all stakeholders, including subscribers, tower companies, suppliers, and creditors, “to await the outcome of the transaction advisor’s work, which will provide clarity on outstanding debt, services, and the future of AT Ghana.”

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