Ghana government to upgrade all rural telephony networks to 4G capability – Minister

Samuel Nartey George, Ghana's Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, announced plans to upgrade all Rural Telephony Project (RTP) sites to a minimum of 4G capability. The upgrade is necessary as 2G and 3G connectivity are no longer adequate in the face of advancing technologies like 5G and 6G. The move is part of a broader review of the RTP, which the ministry will present to Cabinet soon.

During a media visit to rural telephony sites in Akwapim South District and Koforidua lorry terminal, Mr George highlighted that donor and mast sites under RTP were already configured for 4G services, but local sites required equipment and radio upgrades. The government plans to invest in telecom infrastructure similarly to how it invests in roads, schools, and hospitals.

Additionally, mobile network operators, MTN and Telecel, are expanding their networks by deploying new sites, with MTN adding 800 sites this year and Telecel constructing around 350. The government has allocated GH¢30 million for rural telephony projects under the GIFEC budget, including GH¢4 million for urgent works on 20 sites.

Nearly 1,400 RTP sites are currently carrying traffic, with another 300 sites completed and awaiting connection to donor sites, totaling a project target of 2,016 sites. The expansion, combined with the ongoing 5G spectrum auction, aims to reduce network congestion and enhance service quality nationwide.