The government is set to officially unveil its high-speed 5G internet service today, November 1, 2024, at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra.
President Akufo-Addo is anticipated to announce this initiative, which aims to elevate internet connectivity and speed to unprecedented levels.
Known as the Fifth Generation of Wireless Technology, 5G is designed to deliver significantly faster internet speeds, enhanced upload and download capabilities, and more reliable connections with improved capacity.
5G networks operate on the same radio frequencies as previous technologies, including 3G, 4G, and 4G LTE, which have historically supported most mobile devices globally.
Advancements in speed, latency, and bandwidth associated with 5G networks enable shorter download and upload times, stronger connectivity, and enhanced reliability, establishing them as the logical successor to 4G technology.
In fact, 5G is reported to achieve speeds up to ten times faster than the 4G Plus service.
Government on 5G roll out
In a previous interaction with the media, Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, announced that the government has teamed up with seven industry players to create a shared infrastructure for 5G services.
This initiative aims to provide affordable and high-speed mobile broadband services throughout Ghana.
During a Meet-the-Press session earlier this year, she highlighted that the implementation of 5G is expected to offer numerous advantages for Ghanaians, such as faster data speeds, reduced latency, and improved connectivity.
As a result, citizens will be able to access digital services—ranging from healthcare and education to financial services—more efficiently and effectively.
5G service provision and consortium of companies
The government has granted a 5G license to The Next Gen InfraCo NGIC, a newly established shared Infrastructure Company that is co-promoted by the government alongside seven other companies.
According to the government, this shared infrastructure initiative is designed to provide affordable 5G mobile broadband services throughout Ghana.
The collaborating partners include Ascend Digital, K-NET, Radisys, Nokia, Tech Mahindra, AT Ghana, and Telecel Ghana.