Ghana to Revolutionize Mining and Agriculture with Nationwide 5G Rollout and Competitive Licensing

Ghana is poised for a significant technological leap as the National Communications Authority (NCA) prepares for the nationwide introduction of 5G technology. Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko, the Director-General of the NCA, has highlighted the transformative potential of this high-speed network, particularly for the country’s industrial backbone in the mining and agriculture sectors. This move signals a strategic shift toward leveraging advanced telecommunications to drive economic modernization and operational efficiency across the country.

Speaking in a recent interview with Channel One TV, Mr. Fianko emphasized that the deployment of 5G will unlock a new suite of services that were previously technically unfeasible under older network generations. By offering significantly higher speeds and increased capacity, 5G is expected to facilitate real-time data processing and automated solutions within mining operations and agricultural supply chains. These innovations are intended to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and foster a new era of industrial innovation that could place Ghana at the forefront of the regional digital economy.

To ensure that the benefits of 5G are not confined to urban centers, the NCA is implementing a robust licensing framework. This framework includes strict rollout obligations for telecommunications operators, mandating a phased approach to nationwide coverage. The deployment strategy is set to begin at the district level before expanding to constituencies, ensuring that rural and industrial hubs receive priority access. This structured rollout aims to bridge the digital divide and provide the necessary infrastructure for localized industrial growth.

In a move to foster a more dynamic market, the government has revised its previous 5G framework to promote greater participation. Minister Samuel Nartey George confirmed that the Cabinet has approved the removal of exclusivity clauses, which had previously limited the scope of network competition. This policy change paves the way for a competitive spectrum auction, encouraging a wider range of industry players to invest in the rollout. By promoting competition, the NCA hopes to accelerate the adoption of 5G services and ensure that consumers and businesses benefit from high-quality, cost-effective connectivity.