Samuel Nartey George
The government has directed the National Communication Authority (NCA), to expedite plans to roll out 5G mobile networking targeting 70 percent coverage by 2027.
Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, who announced this during the launch of the 30th anniversary celebration of the Ministry in Accra said cabinet has planned to ensure it works out successfully before the country’s Independence Day in 2027.
He explained that the Ministry would issue clear directives to the NCA within days to begin preparations for a spectrum auction, which is expected to take place in the coming weeks.
The sector Minister noted that the regulator will oversee both the wholesale model and the newly introduced network-led operations to achieve the 70 percent coverage target.
“Our vision is to achieve 70% of 5G population coverage by the 70th independence celebration of our nation, next year. So, the work is cut out for the regulator. You have barely a year to roll out 5G using both the wholesale model and the network-led operations and achieve 70% population coverage,” he said.
The Minister also stated that the government is undertaking one of the most comprehensive legal reforms of Ghana’s communications sector since 1996 and currently developing 15 new bills as well as revising old ones in order to modernise the country’s digital and communications framework.
“Infrastructure alone does not create opportunity. That is why the government has launched the One Million Coders Programme. Digital access must lead to productivity, and connectivity must translate into opportunity,” he stated.
According to the Minister, the combined emphasis on regulatory reform and digital skills development reflects the government’s broader strategy to strengthen the country’s digital economy and position it as a competitive technology hub within the region.
By Ebenezer K. Amponsah