It’s a day of exciting news for Ghanaians who rely on the internet! The government just announced plans to launch a nationwide 5G network within the next six months.
This means faster and more affordable mobile data for everyone, a significant leap forward for the country’s digital landscape.
The announcement came from Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, the Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, during a press conference on May 30th, 2024. Leading the charge will be Next-Gen InfraCo (NGIC), the company chosen to spearhead the 5G rollout. NGIC isn’t going it alone – it’s a collaborative effort between the Ghanaian government and seven other partners.
This powerhouse partnership includes tech giants like Nokia and Tech Mahindra, alongside Ghanaian firms Ascend Digital and K-NET. Two prominent telecom companies, AT Ghana and Telecel Ghana, are also part of the team. Word on the street is that even global tech leader Microsoft has shown interest in the project, with discussions underway.
But why 5G? The goal, according to the Minister, is to supercharge Ghana’s digital agenda. Faster internet speeds will impact areas like education, healthcare, and digital payments, ultimately bridging the digital divide and promoting financial inclusion for all Ghanaians.
This isn’t just about faster downloads; it’s about building a more connected and empowered nation. NGIC, with its unique blend of public and private ownership, is poised to become the first 5G Mobile Broadband Shared Infrastructure Entity to build a nationwide 4G/5G network in Ghana.
The multi-partner approach ensures NGIC has the muscle it needs. From deploying the network infrastructure to rolling out cutting-edge services, communication service providers (CSPs) will be well-equipped to offer businesses and consumers a whole new level of digital experience.
So, Ghanaian internet users, get ready to experience a whole new level of speed and affordability! The future of connectivity in Ghana is looking bright, and it’s arriving sooner than you think.
