Ghana eyes 5G boom as President sees wireless tech fueling industrial growth
By Eugene Davis
President Nana Akufo-Addo has dis closed that the intro duction of 5G technol ogy will act as a powerful catalyst for industrial growth, empowering Ghana’s domestic businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which form the backbone of the nation’s economy.
Ghana’s MSMEs, which drive small-scale trade, agriculture, and artisanal industries, embody resilience and innovation, playing a crucial role in economic growth and job creation. They account for approximately 85% of Ghanaian businesses and contribute around 70% of the nation’s GDP, according to recent reports.
The President noted that 5G technology is
much more than a -
nectivity; it has the potential to reshape industries through lightning-fast speeds, greater bandwidth, and increased reliability. “5G promises speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G, with capabilities that will rede ne how we live,
work, and connect,” he remarked at the 5G launch event in Accra last Friday. “As we stand here today, we rea rm our commitment to a future where technology empowers every Ghanaian.”
He highlighted that with faster, more reliable internet, MSMEs would gain access to new markets, improve logistics, and scale operations more eciently. In sectors like manufacturing and agriculture, 5G will enable real-time data collection and machine-to-machine communication, boosting productivity and sustainability.
Agriculture, which sustains the majority of Ghanaian livelihoods, will bene t greatly from 5G-enabled innovations such as precision
farming, remote monitoring, and smart irrigation. These advancements, the President asserted, will increase yields, strengthen food security, and promote sustainable practices.
“Industrialization is a key priority of my administration, and 5G-enabled automation, robotics, and augmented reality will accelerate our progress toward this goal,” he added.
The government is committed to bridging the digital divide to ensure that no Ghanaian is left behind in this digital transformation.
With the 5G rollout, Ghana joins more than 10 African nations leading the continent’s digital revolution. The network will initially be launched in ve regions—Accra, Ashan-
ti, Eastern, Volta, and Central—with expansion plans for other regions underway.
As the latest generation of wireless technology, 5G o ers signi cantly higher internet speeds, faster data transfers, and enhanced network reliability compared to previous generations. Capable of delivering up to 10 times the speed of 4G Plus services, this upgrade will enable faster downloads and consistent performance across multiple industries.
This initiative, designed to provide a ordable high-speed mobile broadband across Ghana, is expected to accelerate digital transformation in sectors such as healthcare, education, and nancial services.
The 5G license has been awarded to Next Gen InfraCo (NGIC), a newly formed shared infrastructure company co-promoted by the government and a consortium of companies, including Ascend Digital, K-NET, Radisys, Nokia, Tech Mahindra, AT Ghana, and Telecel Ghana. This collaborative approach aims to ensure cost-e ective 5G access nationwide, promoting broader access to next-generation mobile connectivity.
Ghana's trading activity plunges 45% in 2023
The Ghana Commodity Exchange (GCX) has reported a substantial decline in trading activity for 2023, with total trade value falling to GH 11.3 millione — a 45% decrease from GH 20.7 million in 2022.
This downturn, detailed in the 2023 Financial Stability Review, underscores the economic and environmental challenges facing Ghana’s agricultural market.
GCX’s traded commodities include maize, soybeans, sorghum, sesame, rice, and cashews. The overall decline re ects the impacts of macroeconomic instability and adverse climate conditions, both of which have in uenced
price dynamics and market performance.
The number of contracts traded on GCX also saw a marked reduction, with only 2,206 contracts executed in 2023—a 36% drop compared to the previous year. Similarly, the trading volume fell signi cant-
ly from 5,585.26 metric tonnes in 2022 to 2,488.17 metric tonnes in 2023.
Despite the downturn, maize remained the primary commodity, accounting for 93% of the total trade volume and even experiencing a 22% increase in transactions, which
stands in contrast to the overall decline.
Amid the challenging gures, the GCX Graded Commodity Index (GCX-GCI) displayed resilience, ending the year with a yield of 7.14%.
This index monitors the prices and returns of graded maize and
soybeans across eight delivery centres, buoyed by stable infrastructure and consistent warehouse capacity maintained over the past three years.
Supporting initiatives, such as the Commodity Aggregation Development Fund (CADeF) and the GCX Aggregation Support Scheme (GASS), have been crucial in fostering trade activity.
These programmes o er essential funding to commodity aggregators, enabling direct procurement from smallholder farmers and bolstering market liquidity, which continues to be vital for sustaining the sector through challenging times.
UBA reinforces commitment to long-term investments in Africa…set to expand operation in Middle East
Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, has set the wheels in motion to expand its operations in the Middle East with plan ongoing to open a subsidiary in Saudi Arabia, its largest economy. This move which is expected to happen within the next year will mark the bank’s second subsidiary in the Gulf Region, following the expan-
sion of its business to the United Arab Emirates in 2022.
UBA’s Group Deputy Managing Director, Muyiwa Akinyemi, who disclosed this during a panel session during the 8th Edition of the Future Investment Initiative(FII) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and in an interview with Arise TV, underscored the bank’s strategic commitment towards fostering Africa’s growth through
infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and sustainable partnerships across key global markets.
He said, “Opening a presence in Saudi Arabia represents the next step for us in connecting the Africa-Gulf region. We are excited to bring UBA’s expertise in nancial services to Saudi Arabia, where we aim to facilitate knowledge trans-
fer and create strong economic linkages. This venture will further enable us to access Saudi expertise in food security, energy transition, and sustainable practices, which are all critical for Africa’s continued development.”
While emphasising the importance of Africa as a strategic investment destination for long-term capital, he said, “Africa’s infrastructure de cit is an
opportunity for investors worldwide. Our pitch to the Gulf and Southeast Asia emphasizes that Africa must be part of their investment horizon. Today, food security is paramount as our population expands.
Akinyemi also highlighted the bank’s dedication to nurturing Africa’s youth talent through entrepreneurship. “Guided by our Group Chairman’s
e orts with the Tony Elumelu Foundation, UBA is committed to supporting young entrepreneurs in tech, agriculture, and entertainment, which are all burgeoning sectors in Africa. With such a young and dynamic population, we see enormous potential for innovation and growth.”
He also reiterated the bank’s continuous support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Africa and beyond as he outlined the bank’s commitment to these businesses, which he referred to as key players in the African economy and vehicles for employment and economic growth.
“SMEs are the backbone of economic development in Africa. They contribute signi cantly to job creation and value chains, particularly within Nigeria. Over the last year, UBA has committed billions to
support SMEs across Africa, and our network of over 20 countries enables us to make a substantial impact.”
During the panel discussions, Akinyemi took time to emphasize UBA’s longstanding experience on the continent as it navigates an ever-evolving investment landscape, adding that “As investors, we focus on infrastructure and sustainable projects that encourage economic prosperity while addressing pressing issues such as talent migration. Our goal is to ensure that people can thrive in Africa without needing to relocate. By investing in local talent and fostering growth sectors, we contribute to building the next generation of global innovators right here in Africa.”
The DMD further articulated UBA’s approach to risk management on the continent, empha-
sizing that the bank’s 75-year history has uniquely equipped it with insights and strategies to navigate diverse markets.
“With over seven decades of experience, Africa is what we know, and that knowledge allows us to manage risks e ectively. We see tremendous opportunities in various sectors across the continent, and our continued investments are driven by a commitment to bring economic empowerment to communities, increase GDP, and improve socioeconomic quality. Our anniversary is a celebration of UBA’s legacy of contributing to Africa’s progress. We look forward to leveraging this milestone to drive even greater impact across sectors and empower future generations,” he said.
United Bank for Africa Plc is a leading Pan-Af-
rican nancial institution, o ering banking services to more than forty- ve million customers, across 1,000 business o ces and customer touch points in 20 African countries. With presence in New York, London,
Paris and Dubai, UBA is connecting people and businesses across Africa through retail, commercial and corporate banking, innovative cross-border payments and remittances, trade nance and ancillary banking services.
The Future of Insurance Through the Crystal Ball: Navigating tomorrow's landscape
As we stand on the cusp of a new era in technology and societal change, the future of insurance is more dynamic and complex than ever. Gazing into the crystal ball reveals a landscape where innovation and adaptation rede ne the industry. Here’s a forward-looking exploration of what the future might hold for insurance.
Hyper-Personalization Through AI and
Data Analytics: The days of one-size- ts-all policies will soon be outmoded. The future of insurance will see a signi cant shift towards hyper-personalization, driven by advancements in arti cial intelligence (AI) and data analytics. AI can analyze vast amounts of data to create highly customized policies. Insurers will harness vast amounts of data from driving habits to
lifestyle choices to tailored policies with unprecedented precision. Imagine a world where your insurance premium adjusts in real-time based on your health metrics or driving behavior, providing a truly customized experience. Lemonade, an Insurtech startup, uses AI to process claims and o er personalized insurance policies. Their AI-driven platform allows for rapid
underwriting and claims processing, exemplifying how AI can tailor insurance o erings to individual needs with remarkable precision. Blockchain for boosted transparency and E ciency: Blockchain technology is poised to revolutionize the insurance industry by enhancing transparency, security, and e ciency. Smart contracts, powered by blockchain, could automate claims pro-
cessing and reduce fraud. By creating immutable records of transactions, blockchain can ensure that all parties involved have access to the same information, fostering trust and reducing disputes. Blockchain technology is set to revolutionize the insurance industry by o ering enhanced transparency and e ciency. Smart contracts on blockchain can automate and streamline
claims processing. Etherisc, a blockchain insurance startup is developing parametric insurance products for natural disasters, where claims are automatically triggered based on prede ned parameters. This approach not only reduces administrative costs but also minimizes fraud by ensuring that all transactions are recorded transparently.
Upsurge of Parametric Insurance: Parametric insurance is set to become a more common feature in the future landscape. Unlike traditional insurance, which relies on detailed claims processes, parametric insurance pays out automatically based on prede ned parameters. If a natural disaster hits, a policy might trigger an automatic payout once certain criteria (like wind speed or rainfall levels) are met. This approach simpli es the claims process and speeds up nancial relief for policyholders. For instance, Flock insurance in London, uses parametric models to o er drone insurance. If a prede ned risk threshold is met, such as weather conditions or equipment malfunction, claims are processed automatically. Digital Transformation and Customer
Experience: The digital revolution will continue to redesign customer expectations and experiences in the insurance industry. Expect more intuitive, user-friendly interfaces for managing policies, ling claims, and receiving support. Vir-
tual assistants and chatbots will become standard, providing round-the-clock assistance and streamlining interactions. Companies like Root Insurance in the United State are at the forefront of this shift, o ering a mobile- rst experience where users can manage policies, le claims, and receive support entirely through an app. This digital approach simpli es interactions and provides a more seamless experience for tech-savvy consumers. It is worth noting that digital transformation agenda is on the rise in Ghana with several insurance companies leading in that regard. Mention can be made of Hollard purple app, which o ers an end-to-end policy management, Enterprise Advantage App, My Super Star App just to mention a few.
Integration with Internet of Things (IoT): The Internet of Things (IoT) will further re ne insurance o erings by integrating real-time data from connected devices. Home insurance policies could adjust based on data from smart home devices that monitor for re, ooding, or break-ins. Similarly, health insurance could leverage data from wearable devices to o er personalized wellness plans and detect potential health issues before they become serious. For example, Metromile, a pay-per-mile car insurance provider in the United States, uses telematics devices to monitor driving
habits. This data allows for personalized pricing based on actual mileage and driving behavior, re ecting a more accurate risk assessment and o ering potential savings for low-mileage drivers. The Easy As Taking A Picture (ETAP) app is another worthy example of the application of intelligent technologies in Africa. Coming soon into Ghana, this app rewards safe driving behaviour’s by carefully collecting and analyzing data using telematics. ETAP o ers instant cover, crash noti cation, emergency support, seamless claims processing and more.
Insurtech Disruption: Insurtech startups are driving innovation in the insurance sector, pushing traditional insurers to rethink their approaches. These startups are developing new technologies, business models, and customer experiences that challenge established norms. The future will see increased collaboration between traditional insurers and Insurtech’s, fostering a more dynamic and competitive industry. Companies like Hubtel, Npontu, Redpear, Sasai are leading these collaborative platforms for insurance companies in Ghana to increase their reach, tap into the uninsured markets and the informal sectors of the Ghanaian economy. By focusing on technology and customer-centric solutions, Insurtech’s are pushing the barriers of traditional insurance markets and challeng-
ing established insurers to innovate and adapt.
Sustainability and ESG: As the impacts of climate change become more pronounced, Insurers are increasingly focusing on sustainability, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors. This includes investing in renewable energy projects, launching ESG-focused products and incorporating ESG factors into underwriting and investment decisions. Climate change will push insurers to incorporate more sophisticated risk assessment tools to evaluate environmental risks. Insurers might also play a crucial role in promoting sustainability by o ering incentives for eco-friendly practices and investments in green technologies. Swiss Re’s “Climate Resilience” platform uses advanced analytics to evaluate the impact of climate change on insurance portfolios, helping insurers adjust coverage and pricing to re ect new environmental realities.
On-Demand and Usage-Based Coverage:The future may also bring innovative models of insurance coverage. On-demand insurance, where coverage is activated only when needed (such as for a speci c event or period), will likely gain traction. Additionally, usage-based insurance could become more prevalent, particularly in sectors like auto insurance, where coverage is based on actual usage patterns
rather than static factors. Trov insurance startup base in the United State, o ers on-demand coverage for personal items like electronics and camera equipment. Users can activate or deactivate coverage via an app, paying only for the time the items are covered, which re ects a growing demand for exible, usage-based insurance solutions.
Vehicle Electri cation:
The future of electric cars and insurance is rapidly changing due to technological advancement and shifting customer needs. Electric vehicles (EVs) will introduce changes to insurance including rates , coverage, pricing ,claims handling to mention a few. EVs will be an enabling platform for autonomous driving and connectivity with more potential for disruption coming from their direct-to-consumer sales model.
Micro and SME Insurance in focus: The future of micro and SME insurance is rapidly changing because of shifting customer needs and digital transformation. Insurers are adopting more customer centric approach to meet the unique needs of SME customers. SME’s and micro based customers are constantly looking for simple yet a ordable comprehensive bundled products that meet their changing needs and expectations. In this space, Insurers look out for partnerships with telecos, ntechs, Insurtechs, banks,
market associations, trade unions, etc. Indeed, the future is inclusive insurance.
Ethical and Privacy Considerations: As data collection and analysis become more integral to insurance, ethical and privacy considerations will be paramount. Balancing personalized service with data protection will be a critical challenge. Insurers will need to navigate regulatory landscapes and build robust systems to safeguard customer information while delivering value. Future developments will require privacy protections and transparent data practices to address consumer concerns and comply with evolving regulations. Regulation requirements would become more strin gent as the world pushes for compliance with General Data Pro-
tection Regulations (GDPR).
Impact of rising cyber security concerns on Insurance: Cyber security continue to pose signi cant threats to individuals and businesses across the globe. Cyber threats have become increasingly disruptive and incessant than a decade ago. This risk is ranked 4th by the World Economic Forum in the 2024 Global Risk Report over the next 2-year period. This emerging risk would drive new products to help individuals and businesses better protect their technology resources and to e ectively respond in cases where they get hit by cyber-attacks. The impact on claims arising from business
because of the potential to disrupt global services and networks. Just imagine the impact and cost of the recent CrowdStrike cyber interruptions a few weeks ago. That single cyber event resulted in multi-dimensional insurance claims with far reaching implications.
Evolving Regulatory Landscapes: Insurance regulation will continue to evolve in response to technological advancements and new risks. Regulators will face the challenge of keeping pace with rapid changes while ensuring consumer protection and market stability. For instance, the National Insurance Commission (NIC) in Ghana introduced a regulatory sandbox to
products and services in a controlled environment. The International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS) is working on guidelines to address emerging technologies and their impact on the insurance sector. The future may see more global harmonization of insurance regulations, facilitating cross-border operations and consumer protection.
In Conclusion, The insurance industry stands on the verge of profound transformation. From AI-driven personalization and blockchain innovations to new coverage models and evolving regulations, the future promises to be both exciting and challenging. By embracing these changes and
the complexities of tomorrow’s landscape and continue to provide value in an increasingly digital and data-driven world.
Looking through the crystal ball, it’s clear that the future of insurance will be de ned by adaptability, innovation, and a commitment to meeting the evolving needs of consumers in an ever-changing world.
**Reference: ** “Swiss Re’s Approach to Climate Risk,” Swiss Re Institute, 2023.
**Reference: ** “How Insurtech is Disrupting the Insurance Industry,” TechCrunch, 2023.
Writer: Iddrisu Nashiru, MD Hollard Life Assurance, 1st Vice President of Ghana Insurers Association. A chartered Insurer (CII UK and Ghana) and A fellow of the Chartered Institute of
Generative AI is taking over – how Ghanaian businesses can harness the power of AI now!
Generative AI is revolutionizing industries across the globe, and Ghanaian businesses are no exception. If your company hasn’t yet tapped into the transformative power of Generative AI, you might be missing out on a signi cant competitive edge. From enhancing customer service to streamlining operations, AI technologies like Microsoft’s Copilot are reshaping the future of work. Introduced in late 2022 with OpenAI’s ChatGPT and integrated into Microsoft 365 in 2024, these AI tools are helping businesses worldwide operate smarter, faster, and more e ciently. 1.
Enhancing customer experience with Generative AI
Personalized customer interactions Today’s consumers expect personalized and seamless experiences from the brands they interact with, and Generative AI delivers this at scale. AI-powered chatbots can engage customers around the clock, providing instant answers, product recommendations, and handling complex queries—all without human intervention. In Ghana, where excellent customer service can set a business apart, deploying AI-driven chatbots can signicantly boost customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Imagine a retail business using AI to analyze customer preferences and automatically generate targeted promotions. An AI chatbot could guide customers through their shopping journey, recommending products based on their browsing history and past purchases. This level of personalization improves the customer experience and drives higher sales, turning casual visitors into loyal customers. Enhanced customer service with AI integration
Generative AI tools like Copilot Studio or Azure OpenAI are enhancing customer service by automating routine interactions. Unlike traditional customer service agents, AI-driven chatbots don’t need breaks or rest and can provide consistent support every time. Customers bene t from faster response times and more accurate information, while businesses save on the costs associated with hiring and training large support teams. For instance, a telecom company in Ghana could deploy AI chatbots to handle common queries like data bundle purchases or account balance checks, freeing human agents to focus on more complex issues. This not only enhances the e ciency of the
service but also improves customer satisfaction.
2.
Streamlining operations and boosting eciency
Automating routine tasks with AI
Generative AI is not just transforming customer interactions; it’s revolutionizing how businesses operate internally by automating repetitive tasks. From generating reports and drafting standard emails to data entry, AI tools like Microsoft’s Power Automate can handle these tasks faster and more accurately than humans, freeing employees to focus on higher-value work. In Ghana, where many businesses struggle with resource constraints, AI-driven automation can be a game-changer. For example, a nancial institution could use AI to automate the generation of daily transaction reports, allowing analysts to spend more time on strategic activities rather than mundane tasks. This enhances productivity and ensures that resources are used where they can make the most impact. Data-driven decision making
Generative AI also enhances data analytics by processing vast datasets with unprecedented speed and accuracy. Businesses in Ghana can leverage
By Allen OLAYIWOLA
AI to make more informed decisions, react quickly to market changes, and allocate resources more eciently. For example, an agribusiness could use AI to analyze weather patterns and market trends, helping farmers decide the best time to plant and sell their crops. This kind of insight was previously only available to large corporations with dedicated data teams, but AI is democratizing access to these powerful analytics.
3. Driving innovation in product development Accelerating design and prototyping Generative AI is proving to be a valuable partner in innovation, helping businesses develop and re ne products faster than ever. By generating initial designs and prototypes, AI speeds up the development cycle, reducing costs and time to market. In industries like fashion and manufacturing, AI can suggest design improvements, simulate outcomes, and create 3D models based on simple prompts, allowing businesses to iterate quickly and e ciently. For instance, a local tech startup could use AI to rapidly prototype new app interfaces, testing di erent designs to nd the most user-friendly option. This approach
not only saves time but also improves the nal product by incorporating AI-driven insights into the development process.
Solving problems creatively
Generative AI isn’t just about automating tasks—it’s also a powerful tool for creative problem-solving. Businesses can use AI to brainstorm solutions to complex challenges, generating multiple approaches that teams can evaluate and re ne. This collaborative approach boosts innovation, leading to better products and services that meet market needs. For example, an energy company in Ghana could use AI to explore new strategies for improving grid eciency, testing various scenarios to nd the most e ective solution. By incorporating AI into the problem-solving process, businesses can achieve breakthroughs faster and more reliably.
Preparing your business for the AI revolution
To harness the full potential of Generative AI, Ghanaian businesses need to ensure their data is well-organized, accurate, and accessible. High-quality data enhances AI’s e ectiveness, leading to more precise outputs and better decision-making. Investing in data management and cybersecurity is
crucial, as AI also introduces new risks, such as sophisticated phishing attacks or data misuse.
Microsoft’s Copilot provides an accessible starting point for integrating AI into your business. By incorporating AI into familiar tools like Excel and Word, Copilot allows companies to boost productivity without a steep learning curve. However, the greater opportunity lies in developing custom AI solutions that address your speci c business challenges.
Conclusion: embrace Generative AI and lead the future
Generative AI is more than a technological trend—it’s a transformative force that can elevate every aspect of
your business. From enhancing customer experiences to streamlining operations and driving innovation, AI empowers Ghanaian businesses to compete on a global scale. The time to act is now. By adopting AI, training your teams, and integrating these technologies into your daily operations, you can unlock new levels of e ciency and growth. Don’t wait for your competitors to take the lead. Embrace Generative AI today and position your business at the forefront of the digital revolution. With the right strategy, AI can turn your biggest challenges into your greatest opportunities. If you'd like to explore how these strategies can help your organiza-
tion thrive, reach out to discuss tailored solutions for your business growth journey.
>>> Allen Olayiwola is a seasoned cloud architect and systems administrator with expertise in leading technical teams to create innovative platforms. As CTO of eSolutions Consulting, he has spearheaded major projects like the O ce 365 rollout for Ghana’s government and infrastructure deployment for the Ghana Revenue Authority. Recognized for his strategic use of emerging technologies, Allen has led his team to multiple Microsoft Partner of the Year awards, solidifying his role as a key leader in tech-driven business transformation. He can be reached via
West Hills Mall's Electronic Hub elevates tech shopping experience
Accra, Ghana, is fast becoming a major technology hub, and West Hills Mall stands out as a premier destination for both tech enthusiasts and everyday shoppers. The mall is home to a range of electronic retailers, o ering everything from the latest smartphones to smart home devices, all within a modern, vibrant shopping environment. West Hills Mall serves as a one-stop destination for all electronic needs, with an extensive selection of products catering to various preferences and budgets. Shoppers can nd the newest laptops, mobile devices, and essential accessories to keep pace with the ever-evolving tech
landscape. Among the standout retailers are:
Compu Ghana: A go-to for computers, laptops, and electronics, catering to students, professionals, and tech hobbyists.
Tele -
fonika: O ers a wide range of mobile phones and smart home devices that elevate everyday living.
Starlite: Known for its smart appliances and cutting-edge audio-visual gadgets designed to enhance home entertainment.
Maxbuy: Specializes in high-performance laptops, gaming consoles, and accessories, ideal for gamers and cre-
ative professionals.
Hisense: O ers top-quality appliances and electronics, including smart TVs and home entertainment systems that bring technology and comfort into the home.
In addition to these tech-focused stores, West Hills Mall is also home to service-oriented brands that provide essential digital solutions:
MTN: Specializes in mobile devices and data
plans, providing seamless connectivity for individuals and businesses alike.
Tele -
cel: O ers competitive deals on devices and network solutions, supporting both personal and business
communications.
Hubtel: Delivers innovative digital services, including mobile payments, cloud solutions, and support for entrepreneurs.
This month, West Hills Mall is excited to launch exclusive promotions centered on technology, o ering
discounts on electronic products, interactive gadget demonstrations, and consultations with tech experts. These initiatives foster a sense of community among tech lovers while highlighting cutting-edge innovations. Beyond the wide range of products, West Hills Mall ensures a pleasant
and convenient shopping experience. The spacious layout, ample parking, and dynamic atmosphere make it easy for customers to browse, shop, and explore the latest in technology at their own pace. As Accra's technology landscape grows, West Hills Mall remains com-
mitted to empowering customers with the tools they need to thrive in a digital world. By uniting leading retailers and service providers under one roof, the mall creates a hub of connectivity and innovation, supporting personal and business growth. Whether you’re
upgrading your tech or exploring the latest gadgets, West Hills Mall o ers an unparalleled shopping experience where technology and convenience converge. Visit West Hills Mall today to discover the future of technology and connectivity in Accra.
NGIC launches 5G In Ghana in partnership with Nokia, Radisys and Tech Mahindra, paving the way for digital transformation
Next Gen Infraco (NGIC), Ghana’s premier 5G wholesale infrastructure provider, today announced the launch of 5G services in Ghana in collaboration with global technology leaders Nokia, Radisys, and Tech Mahindra. As the backbone of Ghana’s 5G infrastructure, NGIC’s mission is to empower telecommunications providers with the network capabilities needed to deliver high-speed, reliable
5G services across the nation. This initiative supports Ghana’s Digital Agenda 2030 and aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, marking a transformative step in Ghana’s journey toward becoming a digitally advanced nation.
With the launch theme, “5G: Accelerating Ghana’s Digital Transformation,” NGIC aims to lay the foundation for unparalleled connectivity, driving
innovation and inclusive economic growth. By providing the infrastructure to support widespread 5G adoption, NGIC is positioned to unlock new opportunities in healthcare, education, commerce, and beyond, paving the way for a digitally empowered Ghana.
A New Era of Connectivity and Innovation Through NGIC’s wholesale infrastructure
model, telecommunications providers have the exibility to expand their service o erings without the need to build their own 5G infrastructure. This unique model enhances the accessibility and a ordability of 5G services, enabling Ghana to bridge the digital divide and ensure that both urban and rural communities bene t from high-speed connectivity.
“Our commitment at NGIC is to provide the highest standard of 5G infrastructure that meets the needs of Ghana’s evolving digital landscape,” said Tenu Awoonor, CEO of NGIC. “We are dedicated to the long- term success of this platform, ensuring that 5G remains accessible, reliable, and transformative for every Ghanaian. This launch marks a critical step in realizing our vision of a connected Ghana
where opportunity reaches every corner of the nation.”
Strategic Rollout
Across Ghana
NGIC’s phased rollout will begin with major cities such as Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi, followed by additional urban centers by the end of 2024. Full nationwide coverage, including rural areas, is targeted for completion by 2026. By leveraging NGIC’s infrastructure, telecommunications providers can swiftly deliver 5G services, fostering growth, innovation, and digital inclusivity across Ghana.
Collaborating with Global Technology Leaders
In partnership with Nokia, Radisys, and Tech Mahindra, NGIC is delivering a world-class 5G network that meets the highest standards of reliability, security, and performance.
Continues on the last page
21st Edition of Ghana Club 100
73 Ankobra West Rural Bank
74 Moonlight Fresco Limited
75 Crocodile Matchets (Ghana) Ltd
76 Kwahu Praso Rural Bank Limited
77 Atwima Kwanwoma Rural Bank PLC
78 Engen Ghana Ltd
79 Alpha Industries Limited
80 Odotobri Rural Bank PLC
81 Imperial General Assurance Company Ltd.
82 Maphlix Trust Ghana Limited
83 Papaye Fast Foods Ltd
84 Reiss & Co Ghana Ltd
85 Activa International Insurance Company (Ghana) Limited
86 Bayport Savings and Loans
87 Sefwiman Rural Bank Plc
88 Firstcode Management Services
89 Anum Rural Bank PLC
90 Kintampo Rural Bank Plc
91 Agroecom Ghana Limited
92 Adansi Rural Bank PLC
93 Advans Ghana Savings and Loans
94 Beaver Health Group
95 Kaaseman Rural Bank PLC
96 Gilsan Manufacturing Company Limited
97 Federated Commodities LTD (FEDCO)
98 New Crystal Health Services Limited
99 Otuasekan Rural Bank Plc
100 Ahantaman Rural Bank PLC
Following the total bid oversubscrip�on, the week-on-week yields also soared further, at least more significantly than the previous week’s increase , witnessing a n upward reac�on of 24.57bps, 26.03bps a nd 23.35bps increases across the 91-, 182- and 364-day bills respec�vely.
T-bills: Government to borrow GH¢4,010.00 Million this week across the 91, 182 and 364 day bills to cater for maturi�es totaling circa GH¢3,760.00 Million
Shares: CAL Bank PLC Shares dominates GSE equity market trades despite a 0.02p price drop to close the week at GHS0.26 per share GLD shares on the other hand is the bigge st gainer with a price increase of GH¢4.15 to close at G H¢427.96 per share
Mutual Fund: NTHC Horizon Fund reports a Year-To-Date (Y TD) performance of 28.86% and a Net Asset Value (NAV) growth of 36.92% for the week ending O ctober 18, 2024
Economy
IMF Board scheduled to meet on Dec 2 to discuss Ghana’s Third Programme Review for a possible relea se of $360 million to the BOG to support Ghana’s budget and balance of payment needs
Continued from page 9
Nokia
“Nokia is excited to partner with NGIC as it builds the future of connectivity in Ghana,” said Mikko Lavanti, Senior Vice President for MEA Mobile Networks, Nokia. “With our advanced 5G solutions, we are empowering NGIC to provide an infrastructure that drives economic and social development, ensuring that Ghana remains at the forefront of digital transformation in Africa”.
Radisys
“Working with NGIC, Radisys is excited to bring our open and disaggregated telecom solutions to Ghana’s 5G rollout,” stated Arun Bhikshesvaran, CEO, Radisys. “By integrating open RAN and cloud-native technologies, we’re helping NGIC build a exible, interoperable network infrastructure that meets both current and future demands. Our scalable, software-centric approach enables NGIC to expand rapidly while maintaining cost-eciency and service quality. This open architecture empowers NGIC to quickly adapt to new services and innovations, ensuring Ghana’s network remains on the cutting edge as 5G evolves globally.”
Tech Mahindra
“As a trusted digital transformation partner, Tech Mahindra is proud to partner NGIC in building an agile 5G
ecosystem that enables smarter, more connected communities,” said Rajiv Vyas, Head of Africa Network Services Sales, Telco and Enterprise, Tech Mahindra.
“Leveraging our AI-driven analytics, automation, and IoT capabilities, we’re helping NGIC optimize its 5G infrastructure to drive transformative applications in sectors like telemedicine, logistics, and education. Our commitment to open standards and advanced cybersecurity protocols ensures that Ghana’s 5G network will be both resilient and future- proof, aligning with our vision of delivering technology that enhances both e ciency and security. This partnership highlights our dedication to sustainable, technology-led growth across Africa.”
Prioritizing Security and Privacy
Data security and privacy are central to NGIC’s approach, with comprehensive cybersecurity measures in place to protect users as 5G adoption expands. Through advanced encryption and proactive monitoring, NGIC ensures a secure digital environment where Ghanaians can con dently engage in the digital economy.
This 5G launch by NGIC and its partners marks a new chapter for Ghana, underscoring a shared commitment to technological innovation, economic empowerment, and sustainable development for all Ghanaians.
About NGIC
Next Gen Infraco (NGIC) is Ghana’s rst 5G wholesale infra-
ing digital connectivity and enabling telecommunications providers to deliver high-quality 5G services across the nation. Partnering with the Government of Ghana, Ascend Digital Solutions, K-Net, and key stakeholders, NGIC plays a pivotal role in Ghana’s digital transformation journey, bridging the digital divide and supporting sustainable economic growth. About Nokia Nokia is a global telecommunications leader, known for its pioneering innovations and secure, highperformance networks that connect people and enable critical services worldwide. Through its partnership with NGIC, Nokia delivers cutting-edge 5G solutions that empower digital transformation across Ghana, fostering a more con-
About Radisys Radisys is a leader in open telecom solutions, providing scalable network technology that supports a ordable and reliable connectivity. Partnering with NGIC, Radisys brings its expertise in open standards and digital infrastructure to Ghana, enhancing the accessibility of 5G technology and promoting inclusive digital progress.
About Tech Mahindra Tech Mahindra is a global leader in digital transformation, consulting, and business reengineering solutions, committed to connecting communities through technology and driving digital empowerment. Tech Mahindra’s collaboration with NGIC underscores its commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable growth within Ghana’s
