Ghana Launches 5G Network Infrastructure to Bridge Digital Divide
The Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, announced a transformative partnership to deploy 5G mobile broadband services nationwide. This initiative, led by the Government of Ghana, has partnered with Ascend Digital, K-NET, Radisys, Nokia, and Tech Mahindra, to launch the Next-Gen InfraCo (NGIC).
NGIC aims to provide affordable 5G mobile broadband services across Ghana, promoting digital inclusion and economic growth. The shared infrastructure model will reduce investment pressures on mobile network operators while delivering best-in-class 5G services to all consumers. This innovative approach will make high-speed, secure, and seamless mobile services accessible to all Ghanaians.
The partnership includes leading technology providers Nokia, Radisys, and Tech Mahindra, with discussions ongoing with Microsoft to join the consortium. NGIC’s equity will be held by the Republic of Ghana, Ascend Digital, K-NET, all mobile network operators in Ghana, and other investors.
The shared 4G and 5G infrastructure will be built by Nokia and Radisys, with IT architecture and integration provided by Microsoft and Tech Mahindra. This collaboration ensures that Ghana leverages cutting-edge expertise and technology to build a robust digital infrastructure.
NGIC’s neutral hosting model and Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) offering will accelerate national enablement programs, reduce the digital divide, optimize capital expenditure, and ensure efficient operating costs while respecting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) fundamentals.
The initiative aims to democratize mobile broadband services, enabling digital entrepreneurs and fostering a high-tech economy. It will facilitate the entry of other network operators, promoting competition and choice. The initial focus is on building a scalable shared infrastructure in Ghana, with potential expansion to other African countries.
NGIC plans to launch affordable 4G/5G-enabled devices and services, enhancing digital inclusion and financial services. The company expects to deploy 4,400 sites, reaching 37 million end customers by 2028, with the goal of making Ghana 100% digital by 2030.
This initiative marks a significant step towards achieving a fully digitized Ghana, driving economic growth, innovation, and job creation. The government’s commitment to equal access to internet connectivity and digital services will have a transformative impact on the lives of Ghanaians, showcasing Ghana as a leader in digital transformation in Africa.
