The much-awaited launch of the fifth Generation (5G) network in Ghana came off on Friday aimed at boosting digital transformation and quickening the pace of economic growth.
The 5G network built by Next-Generation InfraCo (NGIC), a consortium of telecommunication service companies, received exclusive rights for 10 years to roll out 5G and 4G infrastructure across the country to drive network coverage and reliability in Ghana.
Ghanaian President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo said during the launching that the entrance of the 5G network marks a defining moment in Ghana’s journey towards a digitally inclusive and transformed Ghana.
Akufo-Addo said the advanced technology is a leap forward in connectivity to strengthen the country’s vision as a digital economy hub.
He said the 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.
“This new technology is more than just faster internet, but a leap forward in connectivity that aligns with Ghana’s vision to become a digital economy hub, accelerating growth, enhancing services, and transforming lives across all sectors, Akufo-Addo stated.
He added, “The 5G technology will drive our agenda forward, embedding the internet of things, artificial intelligence, and data analytics into daily life across Ghana.”
“We are at the crossroads, where digital technology is no longer an option but an imperative. Our digital transformation agenda, aimed at creating an inclusive digital ecosystem, is critical for job creation, economic diversification, and global competitiveness,” the president added.
The president said he hoped that all sectors, including agriculture, health, education, and manufacturing, among others, would benefit from the advanced technology provided by the 5G network.
“5G will be a catalyst for industrial growth, empowering domestic businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, which are the backbone of our economy, with faster, more reliable internet,” he added.
Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, Minister for Communication and Digitalization, said, “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 subsidize infrastructure costs in underserved areas.”
Owusu-Ekuful said affordability is a major concern for the government in the rollout of the 5G service and would work with the telecom services providers to offer affordable data plans catering to various needs and budgets.
Tenu Awoonor, chief executive officer of NGIC, said the company is committed to providing the highest standard of 5G infrastructure that meets the needs of Ghana’s evolving digital landscape. Enditem