The Government of Ghana has unveiled a transformative partnership to roll out affordable 5G mobile broadband services to advance digital connectivity.
This initiative, dubbed Next-Gen InfraCo (NGIC), represents a collaboration between the government, Ascend Digital, K-NET, Radisys, Nokia and Tech Mahindra, with support from all mobile network operators in Ghana, including AT and Telecel.
The Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Mrs Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, disclosed this at a press briefing in Accra on Thursday.
She said the NGIC partnership aims to drive Ghana to become a fully digitised nation by 2030. The initiative started two years and marks a major milestone in the country’s digital transformation efforts.
“The NGIC will function as a shared infrastructure company, co-promoted by the Government of Ghana, Ascend Digital, and K-NET. Leading technology providers such as Nokia, Radisys and Tech Mahindra are integral partners, with discussions underway to include Microsoft in the consortium.
NGIC’s equity will be distributed among the Republic of Ghana, Ascend Digital, K-NET, all mobile network operators in Ghana and other interested investors, including the technology providers involved,” she added.
Madam Owusu-Ekuful stated that NGIC has been issued a 5G license and is preparing to launch services within the next six months, after which the business intends to expand its infrastructure throughout Ghana and even into other parts of Africa.
She said Nokia and Radisys would build the shared 4G and 5G infrastructure, while Microsoft and Tech Mahindra would handle the IT architecture and integration.
This collaboration promises to bring world-class expertise and cutting-edge technology to Ghana’s digital infrastructure.
She said the launch of NGIC is expected to democratise mobile broadband services in Ghana, encouraging mobile network operators (MNOs) to focus on customer service excellence and innovation.
This infrastructure will support the growth of digital entrepreneurs and facilitate the entry of new network operators into the Ghanaian market.
According to her, the project will also enhance critical national infrastructure, including the rehabilitation of the eastern corridor fibre, the national data centre and LTE Fixed Wireless Access (FWA).
A rural telephony network will connect 3.4 million subscribers in remote areas, establishing the Cybersecurity Authority and resourcing the Data Protection Commission.
“We have also built a high-speed E-Gov network connecting 951 public institutions and agencies across the country, powered by 3500 km of newly laid fibre, providing a nationwide resilient 100Gbps optical fibre infrastructure that will serve as the platform for delivering 4G/5G services across Ghana,” she said.
The network has facilitated the delivery of essential services and improved the efficiency of government operations.
She said NGIC’s efforts would extend beyond Ghana, adopting India’s successful model of affordable handsets, digital platforms and localised content to replicate high-speed mobile data access across Africa.
The minister said the initiative aims to reduce the digital divide and promote financial inclusion, enhancing the quality of life for all Ghanaians.
With this landmark initiative, Ghana positions itself as a leader in digital transformation in Africa, paving the way for a fully digitalised nation by 2030.
Joyce Adwoa Animia Ocran, ISD