Lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS), Professor Kobby Mensah, has reacted to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia‘s ambitious plan to make mobile phones accessible to all Ghanaians by partnering with phone manufacturers to allow citizens to purchase phones on credit.
They will be required to pay as little as one or two cedis per month. He says the initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and enhance digital inclusion across the country.
“We will make mobile phones accessible; my government will partner with phone manufacturers so that Ghanaians can afford them on credit and pay 1 or 2 cedis every month,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
But the Political marketing strategist does not buy into this idea and he believes rational Ghanaians should not as well.
In a post on X platform, he wrote, “Only Mango minds will believe a certain 1 Cedi phone- on-credit policy, and Ghanaians aren’t Mango minds.”
His comment has been deemed harsh by some users on X.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized that increasing access to information and communication technology is crucial for modern living, providing opportunities for education, business, and social connections.
He noted that many Ghanaians currently lack access to smartphones due to high costs, a barrier his government aims to eliminate through this innovative scheme.
“Access to smartphones is no longer a luxury but a necessity. It opens up opportunities for education, business, and staying connected with loved ones. By making smartphones affordable, we are not only enhancing connectivity but also fostering an environment where every Ghanaian can thrive in the digital age,” he added.
The plan involves partnerships with major phone manufacturers to ensure that the devices are available at low costs and on favorable payment terms.
Additionally, the initiative includes measures to educate users on how to leverage smartphones for personal and professional development, further empowering more Ghanaians to participate in the digital economy.
