Industry body the GSMA has warned that a large connectivity usage gap is limiting Ghana’s economic potential.
In a new report, the GSMA noted that while mobile services contribute 8% of Ghana’s GDP (GHS94 billion) and network coverage reaches 99% of the population, a 62% usage gap remains – referring to people who have access to connectivity but do not use it.
The organisation argued that boosting uptake could unlock significant growth across multiple sectors. In agriculture, digital tools such as precision farming could add GHS10.5 billion in value, create 19,000 jobs, and increase crop yields by 10–20%. Meanwhile, upgrading e-government services could raise GHS5.8 billion in tax revenues through improved collection and reduced inefficiencies. The GSMA also pointed to the success of the LEAP social welfare programme, powered by mobile money.
However, device affordability remains a major barrier. The report found that smartphones cost the equivalent of 27% of monthly GDP per capita, rising to 76% for the poorest 40% of Ghanaians. While the government has introduced reforms such as removing the mobile money e-levy in April, the GSMA urged further action.
The body called on policymakers to set out a clear 5G spectrum roadmap and streamline rights of way processes to cut deployment costs for operators.
“Ghana’s RESET agenda provides the perfect framework for digital-led growth,” said GSMA Head of Africa, Angela Wamola. “Our report shows that by addressing specific policy barriers – from spectrum allocation to device affordability – we can connect millions more Ghanaians while positioning the country as West Africa’s premier digital hub. The mobile industry stands ready to partner with government in making this transformation a reality.”
