Ghana has taken a significant step toward a fully connected future with the launch of high-speed 5G internet, initially covering Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi. The event, held today at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, was attended by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, both of whom emphasized the transformative potential of 5G for Ghana’s economy, education, and overall connectivity.
President Akufo-Addo described the launch as a “defining moment in our journey toward a digitally inclusive and transformed Ghana.” He emphasized that this new technology is “more than just faster internet” — it represents “a leap forward in connectivity” that aligns with Ghana’s vision of becoming a digital economy hub. “5G technology will drive our agenda forward, embedding the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and data analytics into daily life across Ghana,” he stated, envisioning innovations that will impact various sectors, including healthcare and agriculture.
Minister Owusu-Ekuful highlighted the immediate benefits for residents of the three cities who “will begin experiencing the advantages almost immediately, once the network operators activate it.” She pointed out that sectors like agriculture will benefit from precision farming and smart irrigation, enhancing food security and sustainability, while healthcare could see a revolution in service accessibility for rural communities through remote consultations and real-time health monitoring.
In her address, Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful encouraged Ghanaians to hold telecom providers accountable for delivering the promised 5G service in these initial areas. “If you live in the initial 5G catchment areas and still cannot access 5G by December, kindly call out your network operator, because they are obligated to make it available to you,” she asserted, reinforcing the government’s commitment to quality and accessible digital services.
**Powering Economic Growth and Innovation**
Both the President and Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful stressed 5G’s potential to boost Ghana’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), providing them with tools to reach new markets and scale their operations. President Akufo-Addo expressed confidence that faster, more reliable internet will “empower domestic businesses” and expand economic opportunities throughout the country. “5G will be a catalyst for industrial growth,” he stated, noting that its capabilities will enhance productivity and connectivity in agriculture and manufacturing sectors.
**Ensuring Security, Inclusivity, and Affordability**
With a focus on security and inclusivity, President Akufo-Addo and Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful outlined measures to ensure all Ghanaians benefit from this technological advancement. The President assured that robust cybersecurity and data privacy protocols would accompany the rollout, creating a trusted digital environment. He also highlighted that rural connectivity is a priority, with plans to extend coverage to underserved areas by 2026.
To make 5G services affordable, the government is collaborating closely with service providers to develop cost-effective data plans. “We are working together with telecom service providers to offer affordable data plans that meet various needs and budgets,” said Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful, adding that public-private partnerships are being explored to help reduce consumer costs.
**A Shared Vision for Ghana’s Digital Future**
Both leaders celebrated the collaborative efforts behind the 5G rollout, acknowledging the contributions of international technology firms and local telecom operators. Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful praised President Akufo-Addo’s leadership for fast-tracking Ghana’s 5G rollout within just five months, noting that his “vision for digitalization” is laying a strong foundation for Ghana’s digital economy.
“Let this day mark the beginning of a new era in our digital journey,” President Akufo-Addo concluded, “one that leads Ghana toward economic resilience, social inclusivity, and global competitiveness.”
