Ghana has officially launched high-speed 5G internet service, beginning with coverage in Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi, as part of the government’s efforts to enhance connectivity nationwide.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, inaugurated the service at an event at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, marking a significant milestone in the country’s digital progress.
In his keynote address, President Akufo-Addo emphasised that Ghana is at a crucial point where digital technology is no longer optional but essential.
He highlighted the country’s digital transformation agenda, which aims to create an inclusive digital ecosystem critical for job creation, economic diversification, and global competitiveness.
“5G technology will have a transformative impact on our national landscape. Its high speed, minimum latency and enhanced capacity will drive our agenda forward, artificial intelligence and data analytics into daily lives across Ghana from urban centres to remote villages,” he stated.
President Akufo-Addo explained that 5G will drive innovations in health, education, agriculture, and security.
He envisioned a future where remote healthcare consultations, expanded access to educational content, and technological advancements reach even the remotest areas.
On her part, the Minister of Communication and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful highlighted that this initial rollout marks the beginning of a phased plan to extend coverage to more urban areas by the end of 2024 and eventually reach rural regions by 2026.
“This is truly a revolutionary leap forward that promises to redefine connectivity, productivity, and overall quality of life,” she remarked.
“Residents in Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi will begin experiencing the benefits almost immediately, once the network operators activate it.”
Ghana’s 5G infrastructure is being developed through a consortium led by Next Gen InfraCo (NGIC), a shared infrastructure company established by the government in collaboration with several private firms, including Ascend Digital, K-NET, Radisys, Nokia, Tech Mahindra, AT Ghana, and Telecel Ghana.
Emphasizing the importance of reliable service, Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful urged citizens to hold their service providers accountable if 5G coverage is not available by December in areas included in the initial rollout.
“If you live in the initial 5G catchment areas and still cannot access 5G by December, kindly call out your network operator, because they have to make it available to you,” she urged.
As Ghana joins the ranks of countries offering 5G, the government has designed the rollout to prioritize digital inclusivity and affordability.
The Next Gen InfraCo (NGIC) has been granted a 10-year exclusivity period to establish a nationwide 5G infrastructure that will be accessible to all telecom operators, ensuring equitable service delivery.
Additionally, the government announced plans to offer affordable data packages and is collaborating with telecom providers to make high-speed internet accessible to businesses, students, and low-income households.
With the launch of 5G, Ghana aims to stimulate growth in key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and education, while also fostering the development of smart cities and advancements in IoT technology.