The government has directed the National Communications Authority (NCA) to accelerate the rollout of fifth-generation (5G) mobile networks, with a target of achieving 70 percent population coverage by Ghana’s 70th Independence Day in 2027.
Speaking at the launch of the 30th anniversary of the Communications Authority of Ghana in Accra on Wednesday, February 25, the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, said the cabinet has taken a bold policy decision to democratise the deployment of 5G technology in the country.
According to him, the ministry will issue clear directions to the NCA within days to commence preparations for a spectrum auction, expected to take place in the coming weeks. The regulator will oversee both the wholesale model and the newly introduced network-led operations to meet the ambitious 70 percent coverage target.
“Our vision is to achieve 70% of 5G population density 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 density coverage.”
“It is a steep aspiration, but I am more than confident in the resilience and abilities of the people who run the NCA,” Minister George said.
