Ghana Enters 5G Era with Launch of Next-Gen Telecommunications Infrastructure

Ghana has officially entered the 5G era with the launch of next-generation telecommunications infrastructure, led by Next Gen Infraco (NGIC), the wholesale provider for 5G services.

This development promises to revolutionize digital connectivity throughout the country.

The rollout of 5G services will initially focus on major urban centers, including Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi, with plans for nationwide expansion aimed at achieving complete coverage by 2026.

This strategy is designed to ensure accessibility and infrastructure readiness in both urban and rural areas.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo described the 5G launch as a strategic initiative to position Ghana as a hub for the digital economy. “5G technology will have a transformative impact on our national landscape,” he remarked. “It is more than just a technological upgrade; it represents a comprehensive national development strategy.”

The launch aligns with Ghana’s Digital Agenda 2030 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, positioning the nation as a leader in technological innovation on the continent.

By employing a unique wholesale infrastructure model, telecommunications providers can swiftly deploy 5G services without incurring the heavy capital costs associated with building individual networks, thus democratizing access to advanced connectivity.

“Our digital transformation journey is about more than economic growth; it’s about delivering improved services to our citizens,” the President noted. “5G will enhance government responsiveness, enable seamless public services, facilitate real-time emergency responses, and improve infrastructure monitoring.”

The 5G network is expected to act as a catalyst for advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and smart city solutions. By offering high-speed, low-latency connectivity, Ghana aims to attract technological investments and foster a vibrant, innovative tech ecosystem.

“Our vision is for every citizen, regardless of location, to harness the power of 5G, unlocking opportunities that were previously unimaginable,” President Akufo-Addo stated, highlighting the transformative potential of this technological milestone.

NGIC is delivering the 5G network in collaboration with Nokia, Radisys, and Tech Mahindra to ensure reliability, security, and performance.

Minister of Communication and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, reflected on Ghana’s telecommunications journey, noting the evolution from rudimentary 1G networks to the newly launched 5G ecosystem. She emphasized that this leap is not merely an upgrade but a revolutionary transformation with significant implications across multiple sectors.

“We have entered the 5G era, representing a substantial advance in connectivity, productivity, and quality of life. 5G offers unparalleled speed, low latency, and massive capacity, driving innovations in agriculture, health, transportation, manufacturing, and banking,” the Minister said.

She also acknowledged the complexities of such a significant technological transition, underscoring the importance of cybersecurity and data privacy.

Comprehensive data protection measures, aligned with international standards, are being implemented to safeguard user information and build trust in the new digital infrastructure.

Tenu Awoonor, CEO of NGIC, reiterated the commitment to providing high-standard 5G infrastructure tailored to 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.

This launch marks a critical step toward realizing our vision of a connected Ghana, where opportunity reaches every corner of the nation,” he concluded.