Ghana has officially launched high-speed Fifth Generation Mobile Technology (5G) internet service, starting with coverage in Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi.
At the launch event held at La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Minister of Communications and Digitalisation Ursula Owusu-Ekuful officially inaugurated the service, marking a major advancement in the country’s digital development.
Ursula Owusu-Ekuful stated, “This represents a revolutionary leap that is set to transform connectivity, productivity, and the overall quality of life.” Residents in Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi will start enjoying the benefits as soon as the network operators activate the service.
The Minister highlighted that the initial rollout represents the beginning of a phased strategy aimed at expanding coverage to more urban areas by the end of 2024, with plans to extend services to rural regions by 2026. Ghana’s 5G infrastructure is being developed by a consortium led by Next Gen InfraCo (NGIC), a shared infrastructure company established through a collaboration between the government and seven private firms: Ascend Digital, K-NET, Radisys, Nokia, Tech Mahindra, AT Ghana, and Telecel Ghana.
Emphasising the need for dependable service, Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful called on citizens to hold their service providers accountable if 5G is not accessible in designated areas 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 stated passionately.
As Ghana steps into the world of 5G, the government is committed to a rollout that prioritises digital inclusivity and affordability. The Next Gen InfraCo (NGIC) has been awarded a 10-year exclusivity agreement to build a nationwide 5G infrastructure, which will be open to all telecom operators to promote fair service delivery.
Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful commended President Akufo-Addo for his steadfast support of Ghana’s digital economy, emphasizing his crucial role in expediting the 5G launch.
“Thank you, sir, for your visionary leadership and your confidence in Ghanaian creativity, talent, and innovation. You have opened the door to a future where technology and connectivity are essential to our national development.”
Furthermore, the government announced plans to provide affordable data packages and is collaborating with telecom companies to ensure high-speed internet access for businesses, students, and low-income households. With the rollout of 5G, Ghana aims to drive growth in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and education, while also promoting the development of smart cities and advancements in the Internet of Things (IoT).
