Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has defended the National Information Technology Agency (NITA) over its enforcement of fees and regulatory requirements, following growing criticism from the country’s technology sector.
Rising concerns from tech industry
The controversy centres on NITA’s implementation of registration fees, certification requirements, and compliance rules for ICT firms, fintech companies, and digital service providers.
Startups, developers, and industry professionals have raised concerns about increased compliance costs and the potential impact on innovation and business growth in Ghana’s digital economy.
Some critics have also argued that the agency is attempting to enforce provisions from a proposed NITA Bill that has not yet been approved by Parliament, sparking debate across the sector.
Government rejects claims
Mr George, however, has strongly rejected these claims, insisting that NITA’s actions are based on existing legislation already in force, not on any future law.
In a public statement, the Minister said the Ministry is “simply enforcing existing legislation” that dates back to multiple legal instruments enacted over the years, including those from 2008, 2023, and 2025.
The legal framework cited includes:
- The National Information Technology Agency Act, 2008 (Act 771)
- The Electronic Transactions Act, 2008 (Act 772)
- The Fees and Charges Regulations (L.I. 2481, 2023) and its 2025 amendment (L.I. 2512)
Mr George described suggestions that NITA is acting outside its authority as misleading, urging critics to carefully examine the existing laws before drawing conclusions.
NITA’s position
In a separate clarification, NITA also maintained that the fees and certification structures are backed by current legislation, not the proposed bill still under consultation.
The agency explained that regulations governing ICT companies, professionals, and digital platforms are derived from legislative instruments already approved by Parliament, dismissing claims that it is prematurely enforcing new laws.
Wider debate on impact
Despite these assurances, the issue has triggered a broader debate within Ghana’s digital ecosystem.
Technology analysts and advocacy groups warn that stricter licensing requirements and fees could discourage startups and individual developers, potentially slowing innovation in a sector seen as key to economic growth.
Some critics argue that expanding certification requirements to individuals may conflict with earlier legal frameworks, raising questions about how far regulatory oversight should extend in a rapidly evolving industry.
Looking ahead
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between regulation and innovation in Ghana’s technology space, as policymakers attempt to modernise the sector while industry players push for more flexible frameworks.
With discussions around the proposed NITA Bill still ongoing, stakeholders are expected to continue engaging government authorities on how best to balance compliance, affordability, and growth within the country’s digital economy.
