In the heart of West Africa, Ghana stands as a beacon of hope and potential, yet its digital landscape tells a story of disparity and struggle.
As the nation strives for a more connected future, the reality of internet access reveals a complex tapestry of high costs, inadequate services, and stark inequalities that challenge the vision of an inclusive digital economy.
Ghana’s journey into the digital age began in the mid1990s, marking a significant milestone in the country’s telecommunications history. In August 1995, Ghana became the second country in sub-Saharan Africa to achieve full Internet connectivity, following South Africa.
This remarkable achievement was spearheaded by a group of pioneers, notably Dr. Nii Narku Quaynor, who is often referred to as the “father of the internet in Africa.” Quaynor, along with his team at Network Computer Systems (NCS), collaborated with international partners such as Pipex International and British Telecom to establish the first commercial Internet service provider in Ghana.
The Current State of Internet Connectivity
As of early 2024, Ghana boasts of approximately 24.06 million internet users, translating to a penetration rate of 69.8% of the population (Statista, 2024). This growth, while promising, masks a deeper issue: the quality of internet services remains inconsistent and often subpar.
The median mobile internet speed hovers around 13.17 Mbps, while fixed connections offer a slightly better 33.60 Mbps (DataReportal, 2024). Despite these figures reflecting some progress—mobile speeds increasing by 66.7% over the past year—the reality for many users is far from satisfactory.
In urban centers, internet access is relatively robust, but venture into rural areas, and the picture changes dramatically. The rural-urban divide is stark; while urban areas enjoy speeds that facilitate seamless streaming and communication, rural communities struggle with connectivity issues and often face speeds below 50% of urban benchmarks (A, Dabalen & J.T, Mensah, 2023). This disparity not only affects daily communication but also hinders educational and economic opportunities for those in less populated regions.
High Costs and Economic Barriers
The cost of internet access in Ghana is another significant barrier. Data charges are notoriously high, with the price for 1GB of mobile data ranking among the steepest in the region (Statista, 2024). This financial burden disproportionately affects low-income households, limiting their ability to participate in the digital economy. For many Ghanaians, the choice between essential services and internet access becomes a painful dilemma.
The economic implications are profound. With 38.95 million mobile connections active in Ghana, the potential for digital entrepreneurship and innovation is immense. However, the high cost of data restricts access to vital online resources, stifling creativity and economic growth (DataReportal, 2024). Moreover, the gender gap in internet usage remains a pressing issue, with men being 7 percentage points more likely to access the internet than women, further entrenching socio-economic inequalities (A, Dabalen & J.T, Mensah, 2023).
Service Quality: A Frustrating Experience
The frustration of unreliable internet service is a common narrative among Ghanaians. Frequent outages and slow speeds plague users, often during critical times. In March 2024, for instance, Ghana experienced significant disruptions due to damage to undersea cables, which affected internet availability across West Africa. Such outages not only disrupt daily life but also have severe economic repercussions, as businesses struggle to maintain operations and communication during these downtimes.
The lack of infrastructure investment exacerbates these issues. Ghana’s internet service providers (ISPs) face challenges in maintaining and upgrading their networks, leading to a cycle of poor service quality. The World Bank estimates that achieving universal, affordable, and high-quality internet access by 2030 will require an investment of $100 billion. Without this investment, the dream of a connected Ghana remains just that—a dream.
Bridging the Digital Divide
Despite these challenges, there is a growing awareness of the need to bridge the digital divide. Initiatives aimed at expanding internet access in rural areas are gaining traction, with government and private sector partnerships emerging to enhance connectivity. The push for fiber optic networks and improved mobile broadband infrastructure is crucial for ensuring that all Ghanaians can access the internet, regardless of their location.
Moreover, the rise of community-based internet projects offers a glimmer of hope. These initiatives often leverage local resources and knowledge to provide affordable internet access, particularly in underserved areas. By fostering local entrepreneurship in the tech space, Ghana can create a more inclusive digital economy that empowers its citizens.
The Future We Desire
In an ideal world, every Ghanaian, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status, would have access to reliable, affordable, and high-speed internet. This vision is not just about connectivity; it’s about enabling the full participation of citizens in the global digital economy. It’s about students in rural areas having the same educational opportunities as those in urban centers, small businesses reaching customers beyond their local communities, and individuals accessing essential services online without barriers.
As Ghana moves forward, the vision of an inclusive internet is not just about connectivity; it is about creating an environment where every citizen can thrive in the digital age. This vision encompasses:
- Affordable Data Costs: Reducing the financial burden of internet access is essential for enabling broader participation in the digital economy.
- Improved Infrastructure: Significant investment in both urban and rural internet infrastructure is necessary to ensure reliable and fast internet for all.
- Digital Literacy Programs: Equipping Ghanaians with the skills to utilize the internet effectively will empower them to engage in online learning, entrepreneurship, and more.
- Policy Support: Government policies that promote competition among ISPs and encourage investment in digital infrastructure will be vital for achieving these goals.
Conclusion
The internet we want in Ghana is one that is accessible, affordable, and reliable for all citizens. While current realities present significant challenges, the potential for growth and improvement is immense. By addressing the disparities in internet access, reducing costs, and investing in infrastructure, Ghana can pave the way for a brighter digital future. The journey may be long, but with collective effort and commitment, the dream of a connected Ghana can become a reality.
AUTHOR: Abraham Fiifi Selby | Postgraduate Student, UCL, School of Public Policy, UK | Digital Analyst | IT researcher | Member, IIPGH, ISOC Ghana, ICANN, UN IGF, EGIGFA, PAYAIG.
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