…marks new era of digital connectivity
By Joshua Worlasi AMLANU
Ghana has officially entered the 5G era, with the government launching next-generation telecommunications infrastructure that promises to revolutionise digital connectivity across the nation, through Next Gen Infraco (NGIC), the 5G wholesale infrastructure provider.
The rollout by NGIC is expected to initially deploy 5G services in major urban centers including Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi, with a plan for a nationwide expansion targeting complete coverage by 2026.
This approach aims to ensure comprehensive accessibility and infrastructure readiness across both urban and rural landscapes.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo highlighted the 5G launch as a strategic move to establish Ghana as a digital economy hub. “5G technology will have a transformative impact on our national landscape,” he said. “It is more than just a technological upgrade, but a comprehensive national development strategy.”
The launch strategically aligns with Ghana’s Digital Agenda 2030 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, positioning the country as a pioneering force in technological innovation across the continent.
By implementing a unique wholesale infrastructure model, telecommunications providers can rapidly deploy 5G services without the substantial capital investment of building individual networks, potentially democratising access to cutting-edge connectivity.
“Our digital transformative journey is about more than economic growth. It is also about delivering better services to our citizens.
“5G will serve as a tool for creating a more responsive and efficient government, enabling seamless public services, real-time emergency responses, and enhanced infrastructure monitoring,” the President said.
The 5G network is poised to be a catalyst for advanced technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and smart city solutions.
By providing unprecedented high-speed, low-latency connectivity, Ghana is strategically positioning itself to attract technological investment and nurture a robust, innovative tech ecosystem.
“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 stated, encapsulating the transformative potential of this technological milestone.
NGIC is delivering the 5G network in partnership with Nokia, Radisys, and Tech Mahindra, to ensure reliability, security, and performance.
Minister of Communication and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, highlighted Ghana’s telecommunications journey, tracing from the rudimentary 1G networks to the current 5G ecosystem, which has been launched.
She positioned this latest technological leap as more than just an incremental upgrade, but a revolutionary transformation with far-reaching implications for multiple sectors.
“We have entered the era of 5G, representing a revolutionary leap forward in connectivity, productivity, and quality of life. 5G boasts unparalleled speed, low latency, and enormous capacity, driving innovations in agriculture, health, transportation, manufacturing, banking, and beyond.
“This technology enables widespread adoption of IoT, AI, and Smart Cities. With 5G now in Ghana, we’ve marked a significant step forward in our digital journey,” the Minister said.
Recognizing the complex challenges inherent in such a significant technological transition, the Minister emphasized cybersecurity and data privacy as a key focus.
Comprehensive data protection protocols, aligned with international standards, are being implemented to safeguard user information and build trust in the new digital infrastructure.
“Our commitment at NGIC is to provide the highest standard of 5G infrastructure that meets the needs of Ghana’s evolving digital landscape,” said Tenu Awoonor, CEO of NGIC. “We are dedicated to the long-term success of this platform, ensuring that 5G remains accessible, reliable, and transformative for every Ghanaian.
This launch marks a critical step in realising our vision of a connected Ghana where opportunity reaches every corner of the nation,” he added.
