Ghana has officially launched high-speed Fifth Generation Mobile Technology (5G) internet service, with coverage starting in Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi.
This initiative is part of the government’s commitment to improve connectivity nationwide.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Minister of Communications and Digitalisation Ursula Owusu-Ekuful officially launched the service at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, marking a huge step forward in Ghana’s digital advancement.
“This is truly a revolutionary leap forward that promises to redefine connectivity, productivity, and overall quality of life,” says Ursula Owusu-Ekuful. Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi residents would see the benefits practically immediately as the network providers activated it.
The Minister emphasized that the initial rollout is the start of a phased strategy that would increase coverage to additional metropolitan areas by the end of 2024, with plans to extend services to rural areas by 2026.
Ghana’s 5G infrastructure is being constructed by a partnership led by Next Gen InfraCo (NGIC), a shared infrastructure corporation formed by the government and seven private companies: Ascend Digital, K-NET, Radisys, Nokia, Tech Mahindra, AT Ghana, and Telecel Ghana.
Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful emphasized the need for dependable service, urging citizens to keep their service providers accountable if 5G is unavailable in defined regions by December.
“If you reside in one of the initial 5G catchment zones and do not have access by then, please reach out to your network operator—they must ensure you can connect,” she said excitedly.
As Ghana enters the realm of 5G, the government is dedicated to a rollout that prioritizes digital inclusion and affordability.
The Next Gen InfraCo (NGIC) has been granted a 10-year exclusive agreement to create a statewide 5G infrastructure that will be accessible to all telecom operators to promote equitable service delivery.
Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful also complimented President Akufo-Addo for his ongoing support for Ghana’s digital economy, emphasizing his critical role in speeding the 5G debut.
“Thank you, sir, for your visionary leadership and for believing in Ghana’s creativity, talent, and ingenuity. You have laid the road for a future in which technology and connection are critical to our national progress.”
Furthermore, the government announced plans to offer affordable data packages and collaborate with telecom carriers to assure high-speed internet access for businesses, students, and low-income households. Ghana’s deployment of 5G seeks to boost growth in sectors including as agriculture, healthcare, and education, while also supporting the development of smart cities and improvements in the Internet of Things (IoT).
