Ghana officially launched its first 5G network on Friday, marking a significant step toward digital transformation and economic growth. The new network was developed by Next-Gen InfraCo, a consortium of telecommunication companies that secured exclusive rights for 10 years to establish and expand 5G and 4G infrastructure nationwide, ensuring improved coverage and network reliability.
In his remarks at the launch, Ghanaian President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo hailed the 5G rollout as a milestone in the country’s journey toward a digitally inclusive future. ‘The introduction of 5G technology marks a defining moment for Ghana’s vision of becoming a digital economy hub,’ said Akufo-Addo. ‘This is about more than faster internet; it’s about strengthening connectivity to support our Digital Agenda 2030 and aligning with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.’
Empowering Ghana’s digital economy
The advanced 5G network aims to propel Ghana’s position as a leader in Africa’s digital economy, creating new opportunities across industries such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and manufacturing. The initiative forms part of Ghana’s broader plan to harness the power of digital technology to drive innovation, improve services, and fuel economic growth.
Akufo-Addo emphasised that the 5G network will support high-speed connectivity essential for integrating next-generation technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics. ‘This leap forward in connectivity will embed technologies that are transforming economies globally, positioning Ghana to harness AI, IoT, and big data in everyday life,’ he added.
Benefits across key sectors
The president underscored the role 5G will play in empowering Ghana’s micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which form the backbone of the national economy. With faster and more reliable internet, local businesses will be better positioned to compete, innovate, and expand within and beyond Ghana’s borders.
Akufo-Addo expressed his hope that the advanced network would benefit all sectors, from agriculture, which could leverage IoT for precision farming, to healthcare and education, where connectivity improvements could enhance access and quality of services. ‘5G will be a catalyst for industrial growth, enabling MSMEs to drive Ghana’s economic agenda forward,’ he noted.
As Ghana moves toward digital maturity, the new 5G network is expected to be a foundational asset, transforming the nation’s connectivity landscape and supporting sustainable development across all sectors.
Credit: Africabreifing
