Ghana plans to achieve 70% population coverage for 5G mobile technology by the end of 2028. This ambitious target forms a central part of the nation's new economic development strategy. The government believes faster internet, artificial intelligence (AI), and improved digital skills will create jobs and boost productivity.
This initiative goes beyond just faster internet speeds. It aims to transform Ghana's economy. The strategy links telecommunications infrastructure with employment, entrepreneurship, and public-sector modernisation. Policymakers see high-speed networks as a foundation for a digital economy.
This approach marks a significant shift in how Ghana views telecommunications infrastructure. Instead of just a consumer product, 5G is now seen as essential for a modern digital economy. This includes areas like financial technology (fintech), business-process outsourcing, healthcare, and education. This strategy aligns with Ghana's broader goal of becoming a digital hub in West Africa.
Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Mohammed Adams Sukparu, confirmed this vision. Speaking at the 2026 National ICT Week, he stated the government is reviewing spectrum policies. This review aims to encourage investment and ensure the country's limited spectrum resources benefit the public widely. "We have announced an ambitious target of achieving 70 percent population coverage of 5G by the end of 2028," Mr Sukparu said. He added that spectrum policies are being reviewed to support investment and public value.
The economic benefits could be substantial. Better connectivity can lower business costs and improve market access for companies. It allows businesses to offer services remotely. This creates opportunities for Ghana to increase its digital exports. Such exports can help diversify the country's foreign-exchange earnings, moving beyond traditional raw materials.
Ghana has already identified business-process and knowledge-process outsourcing as key areas for international competition. The government also promotes local involvement in fintech, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. These sectors are crucial for a modern, diversified economy. This focus helps Ghana attract foreign investment and create high-value jobs.
However, infrastructure alone is not enough for this transformation. Ghana's success depends on businesses and workers developing the skills to use 5G productively. This is why the connectivity strategy includes significant investments in digital skills training. Equipping the workforce with these capabilities is vital for economic growth.
The One Million Coders Programme is a core part of this skills development agenda. The government reported over 12,000 course completions during the early weeks of its second phase. "The programme seeks to equip one million Ghanaians with practical digital and coding skills," Mr Sukparu explained. These skills are essential for employment, entrepreneurship, and participating in the digital economy.
The real test will be whether these training numbers lead to actual jobs and new businesses. Coding courses will create more economic value if participants find employment or start companies. Stronger links between training programs, universities, technology firms, and employers are necessary. This ensures skills translate into tangible economic outcomes.
Artificial intelligence forms another key pillar of this national strategy. Ghana launched its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in April 2026. This strategy sets out guidelines for data governance, infrastructure, talent development, and ethical AI use. Combining AI with widespread high-speed connectivity could significantly impact various sectors.
These sectors include agriculture, healthcare, logistics, and financial services. Faster networks can support real-time data analysis and cloud-based services. They enable remote diagnostics and precision agriculture. More sophisticated digital payment systems will also benefit. Businesses need to access this technology at affordable prices for these benefits to materialise.
For smaller companies, better connectivity can reduce disadvantages of operating outside major cities. Digital platforms offer wider access to customers, suppliers, and financing. This allows small businesses to compete without needing large physical offices. Affordability of these services will ultimately determine how widely these benefits are distributed across the economy.