Ghana’s Rural Connectivity Soars as Over 1,000 Telephony Sites Completed

Under the Ghana Rural Telephony and Digital Inclusion Project (GRT&DIP), the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation has achieved a significant milestone by erecting more than 1,000 rural telephony sites. This initiative aims to extend mobile network connectivity to remote communities previously devoid of such services. Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, revealed the progress during a recent press briefing in Accra.

Currently, out of the planned 2,016 sites, 1,010 have been constructed, with 618 already operational, serving approximately 1,620 rural communities. The implemented telephony sites are providing essential voice and data services, marking a crucial step towards bridging the digital divide in Ghana.

Minister Owusu-Ekuful emphasized the transformative impact of the project, stating that it goes beyond mere telephony coverage, signifying a significant stride towards a more connected, inclusive, and digitally empowered nation. She highlighted the project’s role in enhancing communication, access to information, and connectivity for businesses and residents alike.

The minister underscored the project’s positive influence on various sectors, including healthcare, education, and commerce. Prior to the intervention, challenges such as limited access to healthcare and education services due to lack of connectivity were prevalent in these communities. However, with the implementation of rural telephony, residents now have improved access to basic services and opportunities for digital financial inclusion, remote learning, and market access.

Additionally, Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire have implemented the ECOWAS free roaming initiative, making them the first ECOWAS countries to do so. This initiative allows subscribers to receive calls without roaming fees while visiting the respective countries and exempts them from international roaming charges when travelling between the two nations.

Furthermore, the Innovative Digital Services and Payments Platform (Ghana Gov) has facilitated the collection of GH¢210 billion for the state, with 1,507 institutions onboarded. Meanwhile, the Revolutionary Nationwide E-Government Network (eGovNet) has made significant progress in connecting government agencies onto a modernized, secure fibre optic backbone and radio/wireless infrastructure.