Government Promotes Digital Transformation through Next-Generation Infrastructure Company

Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Mr Samuel Nartey George, has underscored the government’s unwavering dedication to bolstering the nation’s digital infrastructure. During a meeting with Next Gen Infraco (NGIC), a critical player in Ghana’s digital transformation, the Minister emphasized the importance of NGIC’s innovative open-access infrastructure model in achieving the country’s ambitious digitization goals. He urged the company to expedite the launch of its commercial operations, highlighting the anticipation for the tangible benefits of their unique approach to be realized swiftly. This meeting signifies the collaborative spirit between the public and private sectors in driving Ghana’s digital advancement. NGIC’s commitment to deploying state-of-the-art technology and providing accessible connectivity aligns with the government’s vision of fostering a digitally inclusive society.

Next Gen Infraco (NGIC) is poised to revolutionize Ghana’s digital landscape by constructing the nation’s first open-access, wholesale fibre and wireless national network. This groundbreaking initiative will leverage both 4G and exclusive 5G technologies, offering significantly improved connectivity and fostering innovation across various sectors. By adopting an open-access model, NGIC aims to democratize access to high-speed internet, enabling telecommunication companies (telcos), internet service providers (ISPs), and enterprises to leverage their infrastructure and offer affordable services to a wider population. This open approach fosters competition within the telecommunications market, ultimately benefiting consumers through increased choice and potentially lower prices. NGIC’s strategy is pivotal to bridging the digital divide and empowering individuals, businesses, and communities across Ghana.

The core of NGIC’s mission is to provide an open, wholesale 4G network and an exclusive 5G backbone. This two-pronged approach will enable affordable, high-speed internet access, a critical component of a thriving digital economy. The 4G network will provide widespread coverage and cater to a broad range of users, while the dedicated 5G backbone will support more demanding applications requiring ultra-low latency and high bandwidth, such as advanced industrial automation, telemedicine, and immersive technologies. This strategic combination ensures that Ghana’s digital infrastructure can cater to current needs while also laying the foundation for future innovations and technological advancements.

The open-access nature of NGIC’s infrastructure is particularly significant. This model allows multiple service providers to utilize the same network infrastructure, eliminating the need for each provider to invest in duplicative, costly infrastructure. This cost-saving measure can be passed on to consumers, resulting in more affordable internet access for individuals and businesses. Furthermore, the open-access model promotes competition among service providers, encouraging them to offer innovative services and competitive pricing to attract customers. This dynamic environment fosters a more vibrant and responsive telecommunications sector, ultimately benefiting consumers and accelerating the adoption of digital technologies across Ghana.

The delegation from NGIC expressed their admiration for the significant progress Ghana has made in its digital transformation journey. They acknowledged the government’s visionary leadership in creating an environment conducive to digital inclusion. This reciprocal recognition underscores the shared vision between the government and NGIC in creating a digitally empowered nation. NGIC’s investment in cutting-edge technology and infrastructure aligns perfectly with the government’s strategic objectives for the ICT sector, creating a synergistic partnership that is poised to accelerate Ghana’s digital transformation.

The meeting between Minister Nartey George and the NGIC delegation represents a crucial step in solidifying the public-private partnership that is driving Ghana’s digital future. The Minister’s call for expedited commercial operations highlights the government’s eagerness to see the benefits of NGIC’s innovative model materialize. The deployment of open-access 4G and a dedicated 5G backbone holds immense potential for Ghana, not only in terms of improved connectivity and affordability but also in fostering innovation, creating new economic opportunities, and empowering citizens to fully participate in the digital age. This collaboration between the government and NGIC is a clear indication of Ghana’s commitment to leveraging technology for national development and building a truly digitally inclusive society.