On June 20, 2024, Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, Ghana’s Minister of Communication and Digitalisation, laid out a bold vision to expand high-speed broadband networks to 80% of the country within three years. This announcement coincides with a significant partnership between the government and seven industry leaders to bring affordable 5G mobile broadband services to Ghana.

Addressing the current state of telecom networks, Hon. Owusu-Ekuful emphasized that the organic growth of these networks has predominantly favoured commercially viable areas, leaving rural regions underserved. Investors naturally target profitable returns, concentrating high-speed networks in a few urban centres while rural areas remain neglected. To address this disparity, the government has committed to building its own networks in less commercially attractive regions. This initiative is aimed at ensuring every part of Ghana benefits from high-speed broadband, as large sections of the country still lack adequate internet access.

Significant progress has already been made with the government’s rural telephony network project, which uses a shared infrastructure model. Of the planned 2,016 sites, 1,008 have been constructed, with 600 already connected. The goal is to complete and activate the remaining sites by the end of September, significantly boosting rural connectivity. This approach underscores a commitment to leveraging technology for broad-based economic development, in line with research highlighting the critical role of connectivity in driving economic growth.

In a strategic move to avoid the pitfalls experienced with the 4G spectrum auction, the government has decided not to auction the 5G spectrum. The 4G auction saw limited initial interest due to high costs, resulting in only 15% of Ghana having 4G coverage, far below the targeted 50%. By circumventing this approach, the government aims to promote inclusive growth and ensure widespread high-speed internet access.

In support of this vision, the government announced a partnership last month with seven industry players: Ascend Digital, K-NET, Radisys, Nokia, Tech Mahindra, and two telecom operators – AT Ghana and Telecel Ghana. Together, they have formed the Next-Gen Infrastructure Company (NGIC), which has been granted a 5G license. NGIC plans to launch 5G services across Ghana within the next six months, with subsequent expansion to other parts of Africa. This entity will be the first to build a nationwide 4G/5G network, also working with telcos to introduce affordable 4G/5G-enabled fixed wireless access (FWA) customer premises equipment (CPEs) and smartphones within this calendar year.

Hon. Owusu-Ekuful’s vision underscores the critical importance of connectivity as a driver for national development. Ensuring that all regions, including rural areas, benefit from technological advancements is at the heart of this strategy. The partnership with industry leaders further demonstrates the government’s commitment to creating a digitally inclusive society. This dual approach not only aims to bridge the digital divide but also to position Ghana as a leader in technological innovation within Africa.

This comprehensive strategy highlights Ghana’s dedication to using advanced technology for broad-based economic development, fostering an environment where digital connectivity drives growth, innovation, and inclusivity.