Ghana has moved closer to a fully connected digital future with the launch of high-speed 5G internet, initially reaching Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi. The official launch, held at La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, was attended by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Communications and Digitalisation Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, both emphasizing 5G’s transformative potential across the economy, education, and connectivity.
President Akufo-Addo hailed the launch as a milestone for a "digitally inclusive and transformed Ghana," noting that 5G is more than just speed—it’s a leap in connectivity, aligned with Ghana's aspirations to become a digital economy hub. He highlighted how 5G will support advancements in fields like IoT, AI, and data analytics, fostering innovation in healthcare, agriculture, and beyond.
Minister Owusu-Ekuful spoke about the immediate benefits for residents of the three cities, who can start experiencing enhanced connectivity as operators activate the network. She noted practical impacts across various sectors, such as agriculture, where precision technologies will enhance food security, and healthcare, where remote consultations and real-time monitoring will improve access in rural areas.
She urged residents in these areas to hold telecom providers accountable if they fail to deliver 5G service by December, underscoring the government’s commitment to accessible digital services. "If you live in the initial 5G areas and cannot access it by December, make sure to call out your network operator," she advised.
Supporting economic growth, both President Akufo-Addo and Minister Owusu-Ekuful highlighted 5G's potential to empower small businesses, equipping them with tools to reach broader markets and scale. President Akufo-Addo expressed confidence in the technology's ability to fuel industrial productivity, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing.
Prioritizing security, inclusivity, and affordability, the President assured Ghanaians that cybersecurity and data privacy protections would be in place. Plans are also underway to expand rural coverage by 2026, with affordable data options being developed through partnerships with service providers to meet varied budgets.
Both leaders acknowledged the efforts of international tech companies and local telecoms in achieving the 5G rollout, with Minister Owusu-Ekuful commending President Akufo-Addo’s vision for accelerating digitalization.
“Today marks the dawn of a new chapter in Ghana’s digital journey,” President Akufo-Addo stated, "leading Ghana toward resilience, inclusivity, and global competitiveness.”
