Every year on May 17, the world marks World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) to help raise awareness about the transformative power of communication technology.
The 2025 theme “Tagged” “Gender Equality in Digital Transformation,” calls for a renewed commitment to leveling the playing field ensuring that women have equal access, representation, and voice in shaping the digital future.
In Ghana, the digital revolution is not just about access to technology; it’s about inclusion, leadership, and vision. One of the inspiring figures at the forefront of this evolution is Mrs. Ethel Anamoo, Chief Business Officer at AT Ghana (Formerly of AirtelTigo). Her story embodies both the challenges and the breakthroughs that define the journey of women in tech and offers a blueprint for the next generation.
From Military Barracks to Corporate Boardrooms: The Early Years
Born and raised in 37 Military Barracks, Ethel’s childhood dreams reflected the ambition and discipline of her environment. “I wanted to be a senior military nurse like my parents at 37 Military Hospital,” she shares. “At another point, I wanted to be a cabin crew member and travel the world.”
While her early aspirations pointed to service and adventure, her academic path led her to the University of Cape Coast, where she earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree and a Diploma in Education. After three years in an engineering consultancy firm, fate and curiosity led her to the tech world. In 2000, she joined Ghana Telecom as a Customer Service Assistant Manager at the dawn of the GSM revolution.
A Defining Career in Tech
That entry point into telecom ignited a lifelong passion. “I was fascinated by the GSM technology and inspired to learn more so I could better serve customers,” Ethel says.
Her thirst for knowledge and excellence quickly propelled her up the corporate ladder. By 2008, she was the Chief Manager of Corporate Sales when Vodafone acquired Ghana Telecom. Her dedication was soon rewarded with an ITU-sponsored scholarship to study Communications Management at Coventry University in the UK earning a Postgraduate Certificate and Diploma while being the only non-technical female in her cohort.
That moment became a major turning point. “It grounded me in both technology and management. The industry was evolving, and I wanted to evolve with it.”
Resilience, Results, and Representation
Despite a male-dominated landscape, Ethel never allowed gender stereotypes to define her limits. “There were fewer female role models in Senior tech roles when I started. I had my doubts, but I leaned on mentorship, continuous learning, and performance.”
At Vodafone, under the leadership of her expatriate line manager and sponsor, she was selected for the “Women in Excellence” program and undertook training in Telecom Strategy, Mini MBA programs, and Project Management. She also benefited from guidance from seasoned mentors like Dr. Mrs. Stella Agyenin Boateng, then HR Director for the company.
When she joined AT Ghana in 2018 as Chief Business Officer, she took the reins of AT Business, leading Enterprise Sales, Product Development, Commercial Marketing, and Analytics. Today, she is responsible for providing cutting-edge telecom solutions to government agencies, multinationals, SMEs, and more.
Gender Equality in the Age of Digital Transformation
According to Ethel, the role of women in digital transformation is becoming increasingly vital. “Diversity and inclusion drive innovation. Companies with diverse teams are more likely to deliver better business outcomes.” However, she acknowledges persistent challenges—unconscious bias, limited representation, and the digital divide.
She believes companies must implement blind hiring practices, promote female role models, and provide access to education and training to shift the narrative. At AT Ghana, strides are being made through:
- Inclusive hiring practices with diverse interview panels
- Flexible work arrangements supporting work-life balance
- STEM mentorship programs for girls
- Respectful workplace policies
But more can still be done. “We need formal mentorship programs, targeted leadership development, and increased training for women to thrive and rise in digital roles.”
Words to the Next Generation
Ethel’s advice to aspiring women in tech is simple, yet profound: “Believe in yourself. Be resilient. Find your passion. Ask for help. Celebrate your small wins. And never stop learning.”
Looking back, she would tell her younger self to trust the journey, be kind, and enjoy the process. Ethel hopes to inspire confidence in young women, advocate for inclusivity in tech, and leave behind innovative contributions that improve lives.
Ethel Amanoo’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when passion meets perseverance. On this World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, we celebrate her story not just for how far she’s come, but for the path she’s clearing for others.
