Ghana sets 2027 targets for 5G coverage and biometric SIM registration

Ghanaian Communications Minister Sam Nartey George has announced specific targets for the country’s digital infrastructure development. The government aims to achieve 70% 5G population coverage by March 2027, with a commitment to closing the urban-rural digital divide by the end of that same year.

The 5G rollout will be conducted in partnership with the National Communications Authority (NCA), the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), and mobile network operators. The strategy focuses on replacing aging 2G and 3G infrastructure in rural districts with equipment supporting 4G and 5G, supported by necessary fiber and microwave backhaul to ensure genuine broadband speeds.

Additionally, the government plans to implement biometric verification for SIM registration before the end of 2026. Following the passage of a Legislative Instrument by Parliament, the new system will require subscribers to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints, to strengthen the national digital identity system and reduce fraudulent identities.