Ensure 5G reaches all Ghanaians – Akufo-Addo charges Communications Ministry, stakeholders

President Akufo-Addo has charged the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation as well as all stakeholders in the communications sector to ensure that the newly launched 5G network in Ghana reaches all Ghanaians across the length and breadth of the country.

The President gave the charge in his special guest of honour address at the launch of the Next Gen Infraco (NGIC), 5G infrastructure at a ceremony held at the La Palm Beach Hotel in Accra on Friday, 1 November 2024.

The NGIC premier 5G

Next Gen Infraco (NGIC), Ghana’s premier 5G wholesale infrastructure provider, outdoored its 5G services in Ghana in collaboration with global technology leaders Nokia, Radisys, and Tech Mahindra.

As the backbone of Ghana’s 5G infrastructure, NGIC’s mission is to empower telecommunications providers with the network capabilities needed to deliver high-speed, reliable 5G services across the nation.

This initiative supports Ghana’s Digital Agenda 2030 and aligns with
the African Union’s Agenda 2063, marking a transformative step in Ghana’s journey toward becoming a digitally advanced nation.

With the launch theme, “5G: Accelerating Ghana’s Digital Transformation,” NGIC aims to lay the foundation for unparalleled connectivity, driving innovation and inclusive economic growth.

By providing the infrastructure to support widespread 5G adoption, NGIC is positioned to unlock new opportunities in healthcare, education, commerce, and beyond, paving the way for a digitally empowered Ghana.

The charge

In his address, President Akufo-Addo welcomed the official launch of 5G service in Ghana and indicated that his administration aims “to build a responsive government that evolves with the digital age. He called on all stakeholders in the sector to do all within their power to make the 5G service accessible to all persons in the nation regardless of their location.

“As we celebrate this advancement, we must ensure that the benefits of 5G reach all Ghanaians including those in our rural communities. The government is committed to bridging the digital divide so no Ghanaian is left behind. Our investments in rural broadband and mobile infrastructure underscore this commitment to inclusivity.

“We are partnering with the private sector to expand infrastructure in underserved areas knowing that technology is only as impactful as its accessibility. Our vision is a Ghana where every citizen regardless of location, can harness the power of 5G, unlocking opportunities that were once unimaginable,” President Akufo-Addo remarked.

“Our progress with the national digitized IP system, e-governance initiatives, and mobile financial services demonstrate our commitment to modernization. 5G will enhance further these efforts enabling quicker, more transparent, and more efficient public services.

“Security is also critical. 5G offers enhanced features to safeguard our digital infrastructure. with its increased capacity, we can better monitor and protect critical systems, ensuring our digital future remains secure and sustainable,” President Akufo-Addo further remarked.

Benefitting all Ghanaians

Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu Ekuful in her statement indicated that with its unparalleled speed, low latency, and enormous capacity, 5G has the potential to drive innovations in every sector—agriculture, health, transport, manufacturing, and beyond.

The Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and smart cities according to the minister, “are no longer futuristic concepts but imminent realities ready to transform [the] ways of living and working. She assured her audience that her ministry is committed to ensuring that 5G profits all the people of Ghana.

“We are committed to ensuring that 5G benefits all Ghanaians, regardless of their location. As part of our rural inclusion strategy, we have developed an initiative to subsidise infrastructure costs in underserved areas. We are working with our partners to leverage satellite and wireless solutions, which are often more feasible for rural deployment.

“Our Universal Service Fund, managed by GIFEC, is now largely dedicated to rural connectivity projects, reinforcing our commitment to digital equity. This approach will deliver fast, reliable 4G and 5G services to communities that have traditionally faced connectivity challenges,” Ursula Owusu Ekuful said.

“Affordability is a priority in our 5G rollout plan. We are collaborating closely with telecom services providers to offer affordable data plans catering to various needs and budgets. Additionally, the government is exploring public-private partnerships to reduce consumer costs.

“Through these efforts, we aim to make 5G accessible to businesses, small enterprises, students, urban residents, and low-income households. Our goal is to create a digital ecosystem where high-speed connectivity is within the reach of everyone” Mrs Ursula Owusu Ekuful added.

A New Era of Connectivity

On his part, the Chief Executive Office (CEO) of NGIC, Tenu Awoonor, indicated that “through NGIC’s wholesale infrastructure model, telecommunications providers have the flexibility to expand their service offerings without the need to build their own 5G infrastructure.”

This unique model Mr Awoonor said “enhances the accessibility and affordability of 5G services, enabling Ghana to bridge the digital divide and ensure that both urban and rural communities benefit from high-speed connectivity.

“Our commitment at NGIC is to provide the highest standard of 5G infrastructure that meets the needs of Ghana’s evolving digital landscape. We are dedicated to the long-term success of this platform, ensuring that 5G remains accessible, reliable, and transformative for every
Ghanaian,” Mr Awoonor noted.

Strategic Rollout

NGIC’s phased rollout will begin with major cities such as Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi, followed by additional urban centres by the end of 2024. Full nationwide coverage, including rural areas, is targeted for completion by 2026. By leveraging NGIC’s infrastructure, telecommunications providers can swiftly deliver 5G services, fostering growth, innovation, and digital inclusivity across Ghana.

Reporting by Wilberforce Asare in Accra

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