Internet users in Ghana can look forward to faster and more affordable mobile data as the government has announced plans to launch the 5G network within the next six months. 

The announcement was made by the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Mrs Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, at a press conference on Thursday, May 30, 2024.

Next-Gen InfraCo (NGIC), the company awarded the 5G license in Ghana, is set to launch the new internet services across the country within this period. 

Following the initial rollout, there are plans for expansion to other parts of Africa.

NGIC is a consortium formed between the government of Ghana and seven partners: Ascend Digital, K-NET, Radisys, Nokia, Tech Mahindra, and two telecommunications companies, AT Ghana and Telecel Ghana.

Mrs Owusu-Ekuful revealed that global tech giant Microsoft has also expressed interest in the project, and discussions are set to begin soon.

The consortium aims to be the first 5G Mobile Broadband Shared Infrastructure Entity to build a nationwide 4G/5G network. 

This ambitious project is part of Ghana's digital agenda to enhance education, healthcare, and digital payment systems, thereby reducing the digital divide and promoting financial inclusion.

“NGIC’s equity will be held by the public of Ghana, Ascend Digital, K-NET, all mobile operators in Ghana, and other private investors, including technology providers who may wish to join the consortium,” the minister stated.

The multi-partner initiative will support NGIC in the deployment of the network infrastructure and associated services. 

This collaboration aims to address both enterprise and consumer markets with enhanced digital services, helping to drive Ghana's digital transformation forward.

The rollout of the 5G network in Ghana promises a significant boost to the country's digital landscape, bringing faster internet speeds and more reliable connections to users nationwide.