Ghana has set an ambitious target to provide fifth-generation (5G) mobile network coverage to 70 percent of its population by 2027, coinciding with the country’s 70th Independence Day, officials said Wednesday.
Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations Samuel Nartey George announced the directive during the launch of the 30th anniversary of the Communications Authority of Ghana (NCA) in Accra. The government has instructed the NCA to accelerate the rollout of 5G services, using both wholesale and network-led operational models to achieve the target within the next year.
“This is a bold policy decision to democratise 5G deployment in Ghana,” Nartey George said. “Our vision is to achieve 70 percent population coverage by the 70th independence celebration next year. The work is cut out for the regulator, but I am confident in their resilience and abilities.”
The minister indicated that the Ministry would issue formal guidance to the NCA within days to commence preparations for a spectrum auction. The auction, expected in the coming weeks, will enable telecom operators to access the frequencies necessary to roll out 5G networks nationwide.
Ghana joins a growing list of African nations pushing to expand 5G access, which promises higher-speed internet, lower latency, and the potential to accelerate digital services, smart city development, and industrial innovation. 5G is expected to boost mobile broadband capacity and enable new technologies such as autonomous vehicles, telemedicine, and advanced e-commerce.
The government’s plan comes amid a rapid expansion of Ghana’s telecommunications sector, which has seen rising mobile phone penetration and increased demand for high-speed internet. Analysts say the 5G rollout could have significant economic and social impacts, including supporting digital startups, enhancing financial inclusion, and improving public sector services.
“The target is steep but achievable if regulators and operators collaborate closely,” said digital policy expert Dr. Ama Serwaa. “Spectrum allocation, network infrastructure investment, and consumer adoption will be critical to reaching this goal within a year.”
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the government’s announcement but caution that challenges remain, including securing sufficient infrastructure, managing costs, and addressing potential regulatory hurdles. In particular, ensuring that rural and underserved communities benefit from 5G rollout will be key to meeting the population coverage target.
The NCA has already piloted limited 5G services in select urban areas, demonstrating the potential of the technology to transform mobile connectivity in Ghana. Wholesale access models will allow multiple operators to share infrastructure, reducing costs and speeding deployment, while network-led models give operators direct control over coverage and service quality.
“This dual approach is designed to accelerate rollout while maintaining quality standards,” Nartey George said. “It is ambitious, but it signals the government’s commitment to making Ghana a regional leader in digital technology.”
The 70 percent coverage goal aligns with broader African Union and global digital transformation strategies, which emphasize the importance of next-generation connectivity to economic growth, innovation, and competitiveness. Experts note that countries that successfully deploy 5G networks can attract foreign investment, develop technology-driven industries, and improve citizen access to critical digital services.
As Ghana prepares for the 2027 Independence Day celebrations, authorities say the accelerated 5G rollout will be a visible marker of the nation’s digital progress, supporting both economic growth and technological inclusion.
