Reliance Industries-owned Radisys, Nokia and Tech Mahindra united with the Ghanian government to launch a shared infrastructure JV to spread affordable 5G across the West African nation.
In a joint statement, other partners of the JV were detailed including telecom solutions provider K-NET, along with mobile network operators AT Ghana and Telecel.
The companies have partnered to form JV company Next-Gen InfraCo (NGIC). The Ghanian government awarded 5G licences to NGIC, and it is expected to launch 5G services across Ghana in the next six months, with scope to expand to other parts of Africa.
NGIC will build a nationwide 4G/5G network and stakeholders claimed it will be the first 5G mobile broadband shared infrastructure entity to build one.
MNO partners such as AT Ghana and Telecel, will work with NGIC to launch affordable 4G/5G fixed wireless access customer premise equipment and smartphones this year.
Uptake of 5G can enhance the daily lives of Ghanaians through digital services education, healthcare and mobile finance, which is the aim of the NGIC.
Inspired by India
Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, Minister for Communications and Digitalization for the Republic of Ghana, said: “The creation of a shared 5G Mobile Broadband Infrastructure is critical for delivering affordable, high-speed data access to the people of Ghana and help achieve our Digital Ghana vision.
“The creation of NGIC as a neutral, shared platform, accessible to all mobile network operators and tower companies, will help to expand 5G services rapidly across the country. We are inspired by India’s digital infrastructure and low-cost mobile data usage and keen to replicate it in Ghana.”
Mikko Lavanti, Nokia SVP of Middle East and Africa, added: “Ghana holds immense potential for mobile broadband growth on the back of an unmet demand for connectivity. Establishing an Open Access Network like NGIC will foster innovation and create numerous opportunities across various sectors.”
