Ghana Sets Sights on 70% 5G Coverage by 2027
By Maame Efua Kwaduah
The government of Ghana has instructed the National Communications Authority (NCA) to accelerate the deployment of fifth-generation (5G) mobile networks, with the goal of reaching 70 percent population coverage by the country’s 70th Independence Day in 2027.
At the launch of the 30th anniversary of the Communications Authority of Ghana in Accra on Wednesday, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation,Mr. Samuel Nartey George, stated that the cabinet has made a decisive policy decision to expand access to 5G technology nationwide.
Minister George explained that the Ministry would soon provide detailed instructions to the NCA to initiate preparations for a spectrum auction, expected to be held in the coming weeks. The regulator will oversee both the wholesale model and a newly introduced network-led approach to ensure the ambitious 70 percent coverage target is met.
“Our objective is to attain 70 percent 5G population density coverage by the 70th Independence anniversary of our nation next year. The responsibility now lies with the regulator. You have just over a year to roll out 5G using both the wholesale and network-led models to achieve this milestone,” he said.
He expressed confidence in the competence and dedication of the NCA staff, acknowledging that while the target is challenging, it is within reach. “It is a demanding goal, but I am confident in the resilience and skills of the NCA team,” Minister George emphasized.
The Ministry’s initiative forms part of Ghana’s broader digital transformation agenda, aimed at enhancing nationwide connectivity and fostering technological innovation. Experts suggest that widespread 5G access could stimulate growth in sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and business by enabling faster communication and more efficient digital solutions.
This push demonstrates the government’s commitment to modernizing the country’s telecommunications infrastructure and ensuring equitable access to advanced technology across urban and rural areas. Achieving the 70 percent coverage target will position Ghana as a leading digital hub in West Africa, setting a benchmark for innovation and connectivity in the region.
