Ghana launches first 5G network, aims to become West Africa's digital hub
Ghana launched its first 5G network, a major milestone in the country’s digital transformation journey and economic advancement.
Developed by Next-Gen InfraCo, a consortium of telecommunication service companies, this new network promises faster connectivity and enhanced coverage.
The company has been granted exclusive rights for ten years to roll out 5G and 4G infrastructure, aiming to boost network reliability nationwide.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo celebrated the launch as a transformative step toward a digitally inclusive Ghana.
“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,” he stated during the event on Friday, November 1.
According to Akufo-Addo, 5G technology will play a crucial role in driving Ghana’s digital agenda forward, embedding advanced tools like the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and data analytics into daily life.
“The 5G technology will drive our agenda forward, embedding the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and data analytics into daily life across Ghana,” he said, expressing hope that sectors like agriculture, health, education, and manufacturing would benefit immensely from the advanced network capabilities.
This development comes after Ghana recently granted a license to Starlink, providing the country with an additional internet option, after parts of West and Central Africa experienced significant internet disruptions in March, increasing demand for reliable connectivity solutions.
With this 5G launch, Ghana joins other African countries such as South Africa, Nigeria, and Mauritius in embracing next-generation connectivity.
South Africa, the first African nation to roll out 5G in March 2020, leads the continent with the largest subscriber base, having reached approximately 5 million subscribers by the end of 2022, second only to Saudi Arabia in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, according to GlobalComms Database Service.
