NCA Director General Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko Urges Bridging of Digital Divide to Strengthen Democracy

The Director General of the National Communications Authority (NCA), Rev. Ing. Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko, has underscored the critical necessity of closing Ghana’s digital divide to ensure robust democratic participation. Speaking at the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) 77th Anniversary Symposium, Rev. Fianko argued that equal access to information is no longer a luxury but a fundamental requirement for active civic engagement. He emphasized that as Ghana continues to evolve in the digital age, ensuring that all citizens can participate in the national discourse is essential for the health of the country's democracy.

To address these connectivity gaps, the NCA is actively collaborating with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to expand infrastructure across the country. Rev. Fianko revealed that the authority is currently overseeing the development of over 500 new sites and various network upgrades intended to improve service quality and reach underserved communities. This infrastructure drive is a core component of the NCA’s strategy to harmonize technological growth with social equity, ensuring that geographic location does not become a barrier to accessing digital services and information.

Beyond infrastructure, the Director General highlighted the evolving role of the media in a digital-first environment. He called upon journalists to uphold the highest standards of ethical journalism, noting that the proliferation of digital platforms increases the need for trusted, verified information. Rev. Fianko urged media practitioners to innovate responsibly, leveraging new technologies to enhance storytelling while remaining committed to the principles of accuracy and public interest that define the profession.

As Ghana navigates the complexities of technological advancement, the NCA's focus remains on creating an inclusive digital ecosystem that supports both economic growth and social cohesion. By bridging the divide between urban and rural connectivity, the authority aims to empower every Ghanaian with the tools necessary for information sharing and political expression. The success of this initiative will depend on continued partnership between the government, the private sector, and the media to ensure that the digital revolution benefits the entire population.