Ghana and Amazon explore satellite broadband partnership

President John Dramani Mahama and Amazon executives, including Senior Vice President David Zapolsky, held exploratory discussions in New York regarding digital infrastructure and broadband expansion in Ghana. The talks, held on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, focused on the potential role of Amazon’s low earth orbit (LEO) satellite project, Amazon Leo, to improve connectivity in rural and underserved areas.

While no formal contract or deployment timeline has been announced, the potential partnership aims to address Ghana’s digital divide. Improved high-speed internet could support digital education, healthcare, financial inclusion, and e-commerce. This initiative aligns with Ghana’s strategy to attract global technology investment and establish itself as a digital hub for West Africa.

In a separate engagement at a New York town hall, President Mahama also addressed the Ghanaian diaspora, urging them to invest in local businesses rather than relying solely on remittances. He further called for a national forum to address misinformation and disinformation on social media platforms like TikTok.