President Akufo-Addo Unveils 5G Technology to Aid Accelerate Digital Transformation and Economic Growth
President Nana Akufo-Addo officially launched Ghana’s 5G network on Friday, November 1, marking a significant leap forward in the country’s digital transformation agenda. Describing the technology as a “catalyst for industrial growth,” President Akufo-Addo emphasized its role in advancing Ghana’s vision of becoming a digital economy hub.
He highlighted 5G’s promise of up to 100 times the speed of 4G, with applications that extend beyond faster internet to include transformative impacts across sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, and security.
The President underscored 5G’s potential to redefine daily life, from enabling remote healthcare consultations and real-time crop monitoring to improving access to educational resources in remote areas. “Today’s launch reaffirms our commitment to a future where technology empowers every Ghanaian,” he stated, adding that the new network is a step towards an inclusive digital ecosystem crucial for job creation, economic diversification, and global competitiveness.
Strategic Partnerships Propel 5G Rollout
The 5G license has been awarded to Next Gen InfraCo (NGIC), a government-backed infrastructure company formed in collaboration with leading firms such as Ascend Digital, K-NET, Radisys, Nokia, Tech Mahindra, AT Ghana, and Telecel Ghana. This public-private partnership aims to establish affordable, high-speed connectivity across the nation, expanding access to underserved regions and boosting digital inclusivity.
NGIC’s phased rollout will commence in major cities—Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi—before extending to additional urban centers by year-end. The government has set 2026 as the target for achieving full nationwide 5G coverage, including rural areas. NGIC’s infrastructure will enable telecom providers to deliver 5G services efficiently, fostering growth and innovation.
Empowering Key Sectors and MSMEs
President Akufo-Addo outlined the transformative effects of 5G on various sectors. In agriculture, the technology will facilitate advancements like precision farming, remote monitoring, and smart irrigation, all geared toward enhancing productivity and sustainability. Small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) will also benefit from reliable connectivity, allowing them to access new markets, streamline logistics, and scale their operations more effectively.
In healthcare, 5G will enable remote diagnostics and consultations, providing rural communities with critical healthcare services. The technology’s enhanced capacity and minimal latency make it ideal for real-time applications, such as urban planning and emergency response, which are central to government initiatives to modernize public services.
Building a Secure and Inclusive Digital Future
President Akufo-Addo addressed concerns about cybersecurity and data privacy, emphasizing that safeguarding the digital infrastructure is essential for sustainable progress. He called for responsible use of 5G, particularly in areas impacting privacy, while also urging ongoing collaboration between the government, telecommunications providers, and technology firms.
“Our investments in rural broadband and mobile infrastructure reflect our commitment to an inclusive digital transformation, ensuring no Ghanaian is left behind,” he remarked, highlighting efforts to bridge the digital divide. By partnering with the private sector, the government aims to expand 5G access in underserved areas, enabling citizens nationwide to harness the benefits of next-generation technology.
A Milestone for Ghana’s Digital Journey
Concluding his remarks, President Akufo-Addo urged stakeholders to remain engaged, noting that the digital journey is just beginning. He reiterated the importance of initiatives like the Ghana Innovation Hub and coding programs aimed at equipping young Ghanaians with digital skills. “5G is a powerful catalyst for shaping Ghana’s future,” he said. “Our success will be measured not only by internet speeds but by the tangible improvements in people’s lives and the growth of our industries.”
As Ghana enters this new digital era, the launch of 5G technology stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to technological advancement, economic resilience, and social inclusivity, setting the stage for a future of boundless opportunities.
