Ghana deploys 5G technology

The country’s digital transformation agenda took a significant leap when President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo launched the fifth generation (5G) mobile network service in Accra.

With the launch of 5G, Next Gen Infraco (NGIC), a new shared infrastructure company, co-promoted by the government and seven other firms, has been granted a 10-year exclusive licence to invest in and roll out the 5G services. 

Together with its partners, such as Ascend Digital, K-NET, Radisys, Nokia, Tech Mahindra, AT Ghana and Telecel Ghana, NGIC will leverage on an open access network where each operator does not need to invest in the same infrastructure that provides the services, but can access it from the neutral wholesale provider, NGIC. 

NGIC will also empower the telecommunications service providers with the network capabilities needed to deliver the rollout of high-speed and reliable 5G services across the country, starting from Accra, Kumasi and Takoradi, and followed by deployment to additional urban centres and eventually the entire country in the next two years. 

Currently, AT has signed onto the platform to enable it to provide the 5G services to its subscribers, while Telecel is finalising agreements to roll out the service. Other mobile network operators and small firms providing bespoke internet solutions are also expected to follow suit. 

The launch in Accra yesterday of the 5G, which is said to be 10 times faster than the fourth generation plus mobile network (4G+), was on the theme, "5G: Accelerating Ghana's Digital Transformation”. 

5G is said to have shorter download and upload times, coupled with stronger connectivity and better reliability,

Launch

Launching the network in Accra yesterday, President Akufo-Addo said it would accelerate growth and transform lives across all sectors, describing the 5G technology as a significant leap towards a digitally inclusive future.

The President detailed how 5G technology would integrate innovations such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and data analytics into daily life, to impact sectors from health care and education to agriculture and security.

“Imagine healthcare consultations conducted remotely, real-time crop monitoring, and access to educational content even in the remotest regions,” he said, asserting that these advancements were not distant dreams but imminent realities if Ghana acted with foresight and commitment.

President Akufo-Addo added that with faster and reliable internet, micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) could reach new markets, streamline logistics and scale up their operations, while agriculture, which supported the majority of Ghanaians, could also benefit immensely from innovations such as precision farming and smart irrigation.

The President further reiterated the government's commitment to build a responsive administration that evolved with the digital age.

As a result, he said, the government was working to ensure that the benefits of 5G reached all Ghanaians, especially those in rural communities, adding, “Our vision is a Ghana where every citizen, regardless of location, can harness the power of 5G”.

Responsible 

President Akufo-Addo called for a responsible approach to the new technology, stating, “With this power comes the responsibility to use it wisely. We must address concerns around data privacy, cybersecurity, and responsible use to ensure that it fosters progress, not division.”

He further charged the youth, who make up the majority of the population, and who would benefit immensely from the 5G, to take advantage of initiatives such as the Ghana Innovation Hub and coding programmes.

Through such initiatives, the President said, the government was equipping them with digital skills to drive the future of innovation in the country.

“By empowering the youth, we ensure a future where domestic talent drives our digital transformation,” President Akufo-Addo added. 

Potential 

The Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, described the arrival of 5G in Ghana as a significant step in the country’s digital journey, saying it had the potential to drive innovations in various sectors, including agriculture, health, transportation, and manufacturing due to its speed. 

She added that policies had been instituted to foster investment, innovation, and inclusiveness, ensuring every citizen was included in the digital revolution.

Inclusiveness

For his part, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NGIC, Tenu Awoonor, said his company was proud to play a part in the transformation of creating a more inclusive society where no one would be left behind.

“We are investing in the future of Ghana. We believe that 5G is not just a tool for innovation, but a catalyst for growth, development and empowerment of every Ghanaian.

“Whether you are a farmer in Tamale, a small business owner in Kumasi or a student in Cape Coast, 5G will connect you to the world and open doors to new opportunities,” he said.