In a landmark initiative, the Ghanaian government, in partnership with Radisys Corporation, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited owned by Asia’s wealthiest individual, Mukesh Ambani, plans to roll out affordable 5G mobile broadband services nationwide by the end of 2024. The project will be led by the Next-Gen Infrastructure Company (NGIC).
According to Harkirit Singh, NGIC’s executive director, the company will invest $145 million into Ghana’s infrastructure over the next three years. Radisys Corp will provide essential network infrastructure, applications, and smartphones, establishing NGIC as the first 5G mobile broadband infrastructure company to build a national 4G/5G network.
In addition to Radisys, key partners such as Nokia, Tech Mahindra Ltd, and Microsoft Corporation will also be involved. This initiative aligns with the Ghanaian government's vision, as outlined two months ago by Minister of Communication and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, who announced plans to introduce 5G technology in September 2024.
Owusu-Ekuful emphasized the importance of a shared 5G Mobile Broadband Infrastructure, noting, “The creation of NGIC as a neutral, shared platform accessible to all mobile network operators and tower companies will accelerate the rollout of 5G services nationwide.” She added that Ghana aims to mirror India’s success in digital infrastructure and affordable mobile data.
NGIC has secured a ten-year license, with a possible 15-year extension, to provide 5G services in Ghana. The company is jointly owned by stakeholders including two African telecom firms, Ascend Digital Solutions Ltd. and K-NET, which hold 55%, while the Ghanaian government owns 10%. Local mobile operators and private investors hold the remaining shares.
NGIC will not serve customers directly but will offer 5G broadband to mobile operators and internet service providers (ISPs), enabling the widespread availability of high-speed data.
With a population of over 33 million and approximately 24.06 million internet users (a penetration rate of around 70% as of January 2024), Ghana’s telecom market is led by MTN Ghana, Vodafone Ghana, and the state-owned AT Ghana (formerly AirtelTigo).
This partnership and investment are expected to transform Ghana’s digital infrastructure, offering affordable and extensive access to 5G technology. By drawing on the expertise of global industry leaders and fostering collaboration, the Ghanaian government aims to realize its digital vision, closing the digital gap and providing high-speed connectivity to both citizens and businesses