Ghana’s telecommunications sector is on the verge of a significant technological leap: the transition from 4G to 5G. As the world races towards the next generation of wireless technology, Ghana is eager to embrace the possibilities of 5G, promising faster internet speeds, lower latency, and new opportunities for innovation. However, this ambitious move has sparked a debate among Ghanaians who question whether the country is truly ready for 5G, especially when the existing 4G infrastructure has not been perfected, and its affordability remains a serious concern.

4G: Still a Work in Progress

Ghana launched its 4G services in 2016 with high hopes of revolutionising connectivity across the country. With promises of faster browsing speeds, enhanced downloads, and seamless video streaming, 4G was hailed as the technology that would bridge the digital divide. However, several years into its rollout, the 4G experience in Ghana is far from ideal. Many Ghanaians continue to experience inconsistent network coverage, slow internet speeds, and frequent call drops.

For instance, in several rural areas, 4G is still unavailable, leaving millions without access to high-speed internet. Even in urban centres like Accra and Kumasi, where 4G is more prevalent, speeds fluctuate, especially during peak hours, often leaving users frustrated. This inconsistency has raised concerns about the rush towards 5G when 4G hasn’t been fully optimised.

The idea of scaling up to 5G may be exciting on paper, but the reality on the ground speaks volumes. How can Ghana truly leverage the benefits of 5G if the current 4G network is yet to live up to expectations? Would it not make more sense to first resolve the issues with 4G before diving headfirst into 5G?

Pricing and Affordability: A Major Obstacle

One of the most significant barriers to 5G adoption in Ghana will be affordability. 5G technology requires more sophisticated infrastructure, which telecom operators will need to invest heavily in to deploy. The costs of acquiring 5G licenses, building new cell towers, and upgrading existing infrastructure will likely be passed on to consumers in the form of higher data costs. And with the current economic challenges facing many Ghanaians, the question of affordability becomes even more pressing.

At present, 4G data packages in Ghana are already expensive for the average consumer. The high cost of data has been a recurring issue, with many complaining about the mismatch between data pricing and service quality. According to reports, Ghanaians are paying more for internet access compared to several other African countries, yet they receive lower speeds and inconsistent service in return.

Given this reality, the introduction of 5G may further widen the digital divide. Those who can afford the premium 5G services will enjoy faster internet speeds and better connectivity, while many others may be left behind, unable to access or afford the service. The average Ghanaian user is still struggling to keep up with 4G costs; the prospect of paying more for 5G could be daunting.

Moreover, the affordability challenge is not limited to data packages alone. For consumers to enjoy 5G services, they will need 5G-enabled smartphones, which are considerably more expensive than 4G devices. With Ghana’s minimum wage hovering around GH¢14.88 (approximately $1.29) per day, purchasing a 5G phone, which can cost anywhere between GH¢3,000 to GH¢7,000, is simply out of reach for many citizens.

The 5G Promise: Are We Ready?

5G technology offers enormous potential for Ghana’s digital transformation. It promises ultra-fast internet speeds, smart city solutions, advancements in telemedicine, and improved efficiencies in sectors such as education, agriculture, and transportation. For businesses, it could be a game-changer, allowing for more reliable connectivity and supporting the burgeoning tech ecosystem.

However, the promise of 5G can only be realized if the infrastructure is in place to support it and if the cost is accessible to the masses. While major telecom players in Ghana are pushing for 5G, the priority should be ensuring that 4G is functioning optimally for the entire population. Jumping to 5G without addressing the current network issues could create a scenario where only a small fraction of the population benefits from these advancements, leaving millions behind.

Furthermore, for 5G to succeed, there needs to be a clear regulatory framework in place, one that ensures fair pricing and promotes competition among service providers. If 5G pricing follows the trajectory of 4G, where costs are high, and service quality remains inconsistent, the rollout may face significant hurdles.

The Way Forward: Balancing Innovation and Accessibility

As Ghana prepares to embrace the 5G revolution, the government, telecom operators, and regulators must consider the broader picture. Expanding the reach and reliability of 4G should remain a priority to ensure that the benefits of digital connectivity are shared equitably across the country. At the same time, a comprehensive plan is needed to make 5G affordable and accessible, preventing the technology from becoming an exclusive service for the elite.

The rapid evolution of technology is inevitable, and 5G represents the future. But for that future to be inclusive, Ghana must address the current deficiencies in its telecommunications infrastructure and ensure that no one is left behind.

As we stand on the cusp of this technological leap, the question remains: is Ghana ready to make 5G a reality for all, or will it become another expensive, unattainable luxury for the few?