Ghana achieves 90% nationwide connectivity – Ursula Owusu

The Minister for Communication and Digitalization, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, who is also the Member of Parliament for the Ablekuma West Constituency, has revealed that the country has reached 90% internet and network connectivity nationwide.

Speaking in an interview on Angel FM’s Angel Morning Show (AMS) on Monday, December 2,2024,  the Minister highlighted the strides made in digital infrastructure since she assumed office.

According to her, when she took over, national internet and network coverage was only between 60% and 70%.

She explained that by law, network providers were required to cover all district capitals, which had been achieved. However, areas beyond the district capitals, such as smaller towns and rural villages, were often neglected due to low commercial activity. Efforts have since been made to extend network connectivity to these underserved areas.

“Previously, 20% of the country had no network coverage,” she said. “We have worked hard to ensure that half of this uncovered 20% is now connected, leaving just 10% of the country without network access.”

The Minister noted that Ghana is one of the few countries on the African continent to achieve such significant progress, with 90% connectivity nationwide. However, she emphasized that even a single town without network access is unacceptable.

“The challenges often stem from the location of some communities,” she explained. “In certain areas, it’s difficult to install network towers due to the terrain. In such cases, we rely on satellite technology to provide connectivity.”

Ursula Owusu-Ekuful further highlighted that the cost of satellite connectivity, while still more expensive than fiber optic and microwave technologies, is gradually decreasing. This makes it a viable option for hard-to-reach areas such as remote forests, mountainous regions, and riverine communities.

She assured the public that the government remains committed to bridging the digital divide, ensuring that even the most isolated communities are brought online to participate in the country’s growing digital economy.