Ghana raises the stakes for 5G rollout with tougher coverage, quality and resilience requirements
Ericsson and Ghana’s National Communications Authority (NCA) have held discussions on the country’s 5G rollout, network resilience, cybersecurity and quality of communications services as Ghana moves to expand its next-generation connectivity infrastructure.
The discussions took place during a visit by a seven-member Ericsson delegation to the NCA Tower in Accra, led by Patrick Johansson, President and Head of Market Area, Europe, Middle East and Africa at Ericsson.
A key issue raised during the meeting was Ghana’s 5G coverage obligations. The NCA said operators licensed to provide 5G services are required to achieve 70% population coverage by March 2027, with the regulator set to strengthen monitoring of compliance with coverage and service quality requirements.
Suleman Salifu, Deputy Director General for Technical Operations at the NCA, said the Authority’s oversight of the 5G rollout would focus on measurable performance, service quality and the benefits delivered to consumers and businesses.
“On 5G, Salifu said the rollout of services in Ghana would be guided by regulatory oversight, clear performance expectations and measurable service outcomes. He said the NCA’s focus is on ensuring that 5G generates tangible benefits for consumers, businesses and the wider economy.”
The meeting also examined cybersecurity and the resilience of telecommunications networks, with the NCA stressing the need for communications infrastructure to remain reliable and secure as the country adopts more advanced digital technologies.
National emergency communications were identified as another area requiring resilient infrastructure, alongside network coverage, quality of service and consumer experience.
Beyond 5G, the discussions covered sustainable energy solutions and enterprise connectivity for critical industries, including oil and gas, mining and ports. The two sides also considered the role of technology partnerships in strengthening Ghana’s digital infrastructure and preparing businesses and public institutions for emerging technologies.
Salifu said the NCA’s regulatory responsibilities include creating an environment that supports investment and innovation while ensuring consumers and businesses receive secure, reliable and efficient communications services.
He also emphasised continued engagement between the regulator, operators and technology companies as Ghana works towards a resilient communications ecosystem.
Etta Mosore, Deputy Director General for Managerial Operations at the NCA, highlighted knowledge sharing, capacity building and innovation as areas where stronger industry partnerships could support Ghana’s digital transformation.
For Ericsson, the engagement comes as the company marks three decades of operations in Ghana, the same year the NCA celebrates its 30th anniversary.
Johansson said the milestone provided an opportunity for Ericsson to engage stakeholders on Ghana’s digital development and the strengthening of its digital foundation.
Majda Lahlou Kassi, Customer Unit Head for West and Southern Africa at Ericsson, welcomed Ghana’s 5G licensing direction and reaffirmed the company’s interest in supporting the country through knowledge sharing and capacity building.
Her areas of focus included cybersecurity, resilient networks, artificial intelligence and digital skills development.
The NCA and Ericsson agreed to deepen collaboration and exchange expertise on emerging challenges and opportunities in Ghana’s communications sector.
The Ericsson delegation comprised Patrick Johansson, Amos Hadebe, Rostand Njomgang, Richard Kweku Arthur, Majda Lahlou Kassi, Fortunato La Riccia and Ante Mihovilovic, representing the company’s leadership across government policy, regional operations, cloud software and services, and network functions.
The visit concluded with Ericsson presenting the NCA with a commemorative token marking the 30th anniversary milestones of both organisations in Ghana.
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