It is unrealistic to expect platforms like TikTok, PayPal and Meta to monetise in Ghana while fraud continues to thrive, according to Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George.
Speaking to the media at the Ningo-Prampram Education Directorate during the Teachers Awards and Retirees Send-Off, the minister explained that persistent fraud is a major reason Ghana continues to face challenges with platform monetisation.
“I have seen a number of comments on social media saying, this is not what we voted for you for. You’re going after the fraud boys, leave them alone. You’re not creating jobs.
“Yet those same people are asking me to get PayPal to monetise, get TikTok to monetise, and get Meta to monetise. Well, Ghana will continue to be blacklisted as long as fraud persists,” he said.
Sam George noted that fraud was the key reason PayPal exited Ghana several years ago, stressing that the problem has had long-term consequences for Ghana’s digital economy.
According to him, the Ministry will not relent in arresting cyber fraudsters, as the actions of a few individuals are negatively affecting many Ghanaians who are legitimately working online, especially content creators.
“The reason PayPal left Ghana is because of fraud. When a few people deprive the majority who are doing legitimate work on social media and creating content, it affects everyone. The reason you cannot monetise and get value for your craft is because some individuals have chosen to give Ghana a bad name. We will take action,” he stated.
He added that clamping down on cybercrime improves Ghana’s international reputation and strengthens the country’s position when engaging digital platforms on monetisation.
“As we intensify the fight against cybercrime, it helps us present Ghana as a peaceful and safe destination where illicit flows will not pass. That is what gives platforms like TikTok and Meta the confidence to engage with us on monetisation,” he added.
Source: Ghanaweb
