Ghana has officially rolled out its high-speed 5G internet service, initially covering Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi, as part of the government’s plan to enhance digital connectivity nationwide.
The launch, held at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, saw President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Communications and Digitalisation Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful introduce the service, marking a significant step in Ghana’s digital progress. “This is a transformative move that will redefine how we connect, work, and experience life,” commented Ursula Owusu-Ekuful. “Residents in Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi will start experiencing these benefits almost immediately as network operators activate the service.”
According to Owusu-Ekuful, this initial launch is the first phase of a broader plan that aims to expand 5G to other urban areas by the end of 2024, with plans to reach rural communities by 2026. The 5G infrastructure is being developed by a consortium led by NextGen InfraCo (NGIC), a shared infrastructure provider supported by the government and several private partners, including Ascend Digital, K-NET, Radisys, Nokia, Tech Mahindra, AT Ghana, and Telecel Ghana.
Emphasizing the importance of reliable service, Owusu-Ekuful encouraged citizens in areas included in the initial phase to hold their network providers accountable if 5G access is not available by December. “If you live in the designated 5G areas and still cannot access the service by December, it’s your right to demand it from your network operator,” she asserted.
As Ghana joins the global movement towards 5G, the government has focused on making the rollout inclusive and affordable. NGIC has been granted a 10-year exclusive period to build and maintain 5G infrastructure across Ghana, which will be accessible to all telecom operators to ensure fair and widespread service.
Owusu-Ekuful praised President Akufo-Addo for his commitment to Ghana’s digital future, noting his role in accelerating the 5G rollout. “Thank you, Mr. President, for your visionary leadership and belief in Ghana’s potential for innovation,” she said. “You have set us on a path to a future where technology and connectivity are key to our nation’s growth.”
The government also unveiled plans to introduce affordable data packages in collaboration with telecom providers, making high-speed internet more accessible to businesses, students, and low-income households. With this 5G launch, Ghana aims to drive growth in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and education and support smart city and IoT initiatives for enhanced national development.
Sourced by MyABCLive.com from Graphiconline.com
