Technology News from Ghana

The latest technology news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

NCA Shortlists MTN, Telecel, and Goal Telecom for Final Stage of Ghana's 5G Spectrum Licensing
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NCA Shortlists MTN, Telecel, and Goal Telecom for Final Stage of Ghana's 5G Spectrum Licensing

The National Communications Authority (NCA) of Ghana has officially shortlisted three telecommunications firms to proceed to the final stages of the 5G spectrum licensing process. Scancom Plc (MTN Ghana), Ghana Telecommunications Company Limited (Telecel Ghana), and Goal Telecommunications Ltd have successfully cleared the preliminary assessment phase, moving them closer to deploying fifth-generation network technology across the country. This milestone, announced on September 9, 2026, marks a significant step forward in Ghana's digital transformation agenda as the government seeks to implement ultra-high-speed connectivity to meet growing consumer and industrial demand. The selection comes after a rigorous evaluation of four applications submitted by the August 27, 2026 deadline. Following the NCA's technical and financial assessment, the three successful companies were approved to advance to "Stage 3" of the licensing framework, while Infrava Ltd was disqualified. The qualified applicants are vying for spectrum allocations within the critical 700MHz, 2.3GHz, and 3GHz bands. These frequencies are essential for providing the low-latency and high-bandwidth capabilities that define 5G, enabling a more robust and responsive mobile infrastructure than current 4G standards allow. Looking ahead, the NCA will notify the qualified bidders for the opening and ranking of their "Best Price Offers" to finalize the allocation. The entire licensing process is slated for completion by the end of 2026, paving the way for a rapid national rollout of 5G services. This advancement is expected to revolutionize Ghana's digital landscape by significantly enhancing data transmission speeds and device connectivity. By fostering a competitive licensing environment, the NCA aims to ensure that the transition to 5G technology provides maximum benefit to the Ghanaian economy and its telecommunications subscribers.

Ghana Strengthens National Defenses via Cybersecurity Act of 2020 Amid Global Digital Shift
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Ghana Strengthens National Defenses via Cybersecurity Act of 2020 Amid Global Digital Shift

As Ghana undergoes a rapid digital transformation, the nation is pivoting its focus toward robust cybersecurity frameworks to protect its expanding digital infrastructure. Central to this effort is the Cybersecurity Act of 2020, which formalized national defenses and led to the establishment of the Cybersecurity Authority. This legislative milestone reflects a global necessity to transition from basic security measures to sophisticated, multi-layered strategies capable of defending against an increasingly complex array of digital threats. The journey of cybersecurity has evolved significantly since the early days of computing, when security was primarily defined by physical locks and restricted access to mainframe hardware. As networking capabilities emerged in the 1960s and the proliferation of personal computers and the internet accelerated in the 1980s and 1990s, the focus shifted from physical barriers to logical controls. Today, protection relies on rigorous access management, multi-factor authentication, and advanced encryption to safeguard data as it moves across interconnected global networks. Modern threats have become far more sophisticated than the early malware of previous decades, now encompassing destructive ransomware, supply-chain vulnerabilities, and AI-driven attacks. To counter these, security professionals are moving away from traditional perimeter-based models toward zero-trust architectures and continuous monitoring. This approach assumes that threats could exist both outside and inside a network, necessitating a regime where every access request is verified and system activities are tracked in real-time. Looking ahead, the integration of artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), and automated analytics will further redefine the technological landscape. Ghana’s proactive stance through the 2020 Act positions the country to adapt to these changes, emphasizing that cybersecurity is an ongoing practice rather than a static product. As technology continues to advance, the national strategy remains focused on maintaining a resilient environment through constant adaptation and the implementation of advanced security disciplines.

Apple Unveils First Foldable iPhone Duo as CEO John Ternus Leads Major Product Shift
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Apple Unveils First Foldable iPhone Duo as CEO John Ternus Leads Major Product Shift

Apple has officially entered the foldable smartphone market with the unveiling of the iPhone Duo during a high-profile event in Cupertino. This landmark launch represents the first major redesign of the iPhone line since the introduction of the iPhone X in 2017. The event also served as the debut keynote for Apple’s new CEO, John Ternus, who took the helm after previously leading the company’s hardware development. The iPhone Duo is positioned as a premium flagship, with pricing expected to exceed $2,000, signaling Apple's intent to dominate the high-end luxury mobile segment. The iPhone Duo features a 7.6-inch Retina display when fully unfolded, complemented by a 5.4-inch outer display for quick interactions. Drawing inspiration from the versatility of the iPad, the device is designed to enhance productivity through features like split-screen multitasking and seamless unlocking capabilities via the Apple Watch. In a notable shift in biometric strategy, Apple has opted for a dedicated Touch ID system for the Duo, omitting the Face ID technology found in other recent models. This design choice reflects a focus on hardware utility and the specific physical requirements of a folding chassis. The launch of the foldable device is part of a broader annual product strategy that prioritizes the iPhone Duo alongside updates to the Pro and Pro Max lines. To maintain focus on these premium offerings, Apple has reportedly delayed updates to its more affordable iPhone models until spring 2024. This tiered release schedule underscores the company's commitment to establishing the Duo as a tier-one product rather than a niche experiment. Analysts are already divided on the device's immediate impact, with some predicting it could capture 25% of the foldable market by the end of 2026, while others suggest it could reach as high as 40% by the end of next year. As the smartphone industry increasingly moves toward flexible form factors, the iPhone Duo represents Apple's long-awaited response to growing competition in the foldable space. By combining the power of the iPad's software ecosystem with a compact, dual-screen form factor, Apple aims to redefine mobile productivity for professionals. Industry observers will be watching closely to see if the high entry price and the shift in leadership under Ternus will solidify Apple's position as the leader in the next generation of mobile technology.

Minister Samuel Nartey George and French Ambassador Diarra Dime-Labille Strengthen Ghana-France Digital and Telecom Ties
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Minister Samuel Nartey George and French Ambassador Diarra Dime-Labille Strengthen Ghana-France Digital and Telecom Ties

In a significant move to bolster Ghana's digital landscape, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, recently held high-level discussions with the French Ambassador to Ghana, Diarra Dime-Labille. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation within the telecommunications and digital sectors, with a primary objective of improving access to affordable digital connectivity. Both officials emphasized the need for digital services to reflect the economic realities of Ghanaians, ensuring that technology remains a tool for inclusion rather than a privilege. A central theme of the dialogue was the pursuit of increased foreign direct investment (FDI) in Ghana's digital infrastructure. Minister Sam George reiterated the government's commitment to fostering a competitive and investment-friendly environment designed to attract French enterprises and other international partners. The discussions also touched upon the technical expansion of data and broadcasting services, aiming to provide higher quality and more reliable coverage across the country to support the nation's growing digital economy. Beyond infrastructure, the meeting addressed the critical issue of digital disinformation, a global challenge that requires coordinated international responses. The Minister and the Ambassador explored collaborative measures to mitigate the spread of false information online, particularly in the lead-up to the upcoming Internet Governance Forum (IGF) scheduled for November. By aligning their strategies on digital governance and security, both nations seek to promote a safer and more transparent internet environment for their citizens. This diplomatic engagement underscores the government's proactive approach to leveraging international partnerships for technological advancement. As preparations for the November IGF intensify, the collaboration between the Ministry and the French Embassy is expected to yield concrete frameworks for future investment and policy alignment. This partnership marks a continued effort to position Ghana as a resilient regional hub for digital innovation, supported by robust international alliances and a clear focus on affordable, high-quality connectivity.

Samuel Nartey George, Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, speaking during the Government Accountability Series
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Minister Samuel Nartey George Addresses Fibre Cuts and Grid Instability Threatening Ghana's Digital Infrastructure

Ghana's Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has identified frequent fibre optic cable cuts and national power grid instability as the primary factors undermining telecommunications quality across the country. These infrastructure challenges have become a significant bottleneck for the nation's digital transformation, leading to prolonged network outages that disrupt service for millions of citizens and businesses. The Minister emphasized that the lack of coordination between utility providers and construction firms remains a critical hurdle that must be overcome to ensure a stable digital environment. Statistical data highlights the alarming scale of the issue, with 4,289 fibre cuts reported in the first half of 2023 alone. Projections indicate that without significant intervention, the number of annual cuts could rise to 8,578 by 2026. According to the Minister, road construction-related excavation is the leading cause of these disruptions. To combat this, the government is pursuing the approval of a ‐Dig Once Policy,‐ which would mandate the integration of fibre conduits into all new road projects, effectively preventing the need for subsequent excavations that often damage underground cables. In addition to policy reforms, the government is exploring the implementation of strict penalties for individuals or entities that damage telecommunications infrastructure. There is also an ongoing collaborative effort with the Ministry of Energy and GRIDCo to address power resilience, as grid instability frequently forces cell sites offline. Amidst these challenges, private telecommunications providers such as MTN Ghana and Telecel are continuing to invest in network modernization, with a specific focus on expanding rural connectivity to ensure that digital access reaches the most remote parts of the country. The successful adoption of the ‐Dig Once Policy‐ and improved synchronization between infrastructure agencies are viewed as vital steps toward securing Ghana's technological future. As the current administration under President John Mahama continues to prioritize digital growth, resolving these systemic physical and electrical vulnerabilities remains a top priority. Experts suggest that a more robust infrastructure framework will not only improve the daily user experience but also provide the necessary stability to support the country's burgeoning digital economy and innovation hubs.

Samuel Nartey George (middle), Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, addressing stakeholders at the transport station. With him are Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey (2nd from left), Eastern Regional Minister, and other officials
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Minister Samuel George Dismisses Health Concerns Over Telecom Masts, Announces Major Network Expansion

Samuel Nartey George, Ghana's Minister of Communication, has officially reassured the public that telecommunications masts and cell towers do not pose health risks to citizens. Addressing recent anxieties sparked by a specific installation in Koforidua, the Minister emphasized that all such infrastructure is subject to rigorous safety protocols and constant monitoring. He maintained that the government’s drive for digital connectivity is underpinned by a commitment to public safety, asserting that there is no scientific basis for fears regarding radiation from these essential installations. To ensure these standards are met, the Minister highlighted the collaborative oversight of the National Communications Authority (NCA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), all of which enforce strict compliance with international safety guidelines. According to Mr. George, the radiation levels emitted by these towers are well within safe thresholds, and the regulatory framework in place ensures that every site is thoroughly vetted before and after construction. By citing these established standards, the Ministry aims to dispel long-standing myths and build public confidence in the infrastructure required for modern communication. Looking toward the future of Ghana's digital landscape, Minister George announced an ambitious plan to deploy 6,000 new cell sites across the country. This expansion is intended to drastically improve service quality, increase network capacity, and ensure more reliable connectivity for both urban and rural populations. In tandem with these hardware improvements, the Minister also championed the One Million Coders Programme, an initiative designed to enhance digital literacy and technical skills among Ghanaians. He noted that the program has seen enthusiastic participation from students and universities, marking a significant step toward preparing the national workforce for the global digital economy. As Ghana continues its rapid digital transformation, the Ministry’s dual focus on expanding infrastructure and building human capital signals a comprehensive strategy for economic growth. The successful rollout of 6,000 new towers will be critical for supporting the rising demand for data and mobile services, while the focus on coding and digital skills ensures that the population can fully leverage this improved connectivity. By addressing health concerns transparently, the government hopes to facilitate a smoother path for these critical technological advancements.

Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, Deputy Chief of staff, Administration
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Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe Addo Credits AI Platform for GH"1 Billion Monthly Revenue Surge at GRA

Ghana’s digital transformation in public service has reached a significant financial milestone, with the deployment of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) trade valuation platform generating GH"1 billion in monthly revenue for the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe Addo revealed these figures during the HR Café event in Accra, highlighting how AI-driven reforms are fundamentally reshaping revenue collection and operational efficiency across various state institutions. The platform’s success underscores the government's current focus on leveraging technology to stabilize the economy and streamline bureaucratic processes through modern digital infrastructure. Beyond revenue generation, the Deputy Chief of Staff emphasized that the integration of AI is part of a broader effort to modernize public services and reduce the traditional bottlenecks associated with manual processing. During her address, she noted that the AI platform has not only enhanced transparency but has also significantly improved the speed of trade valuations at the nation’s ports. This technological shift is seen as a cornerstone of the national strategy to bolster domestic resource mobilization while fostering a more business-friendly environment for both local and international trade partners, ensuring that the GRA meets its ambitious targets. The event also served as a platform for strengthening regional ties, with Bampoe Addo calling for deeper collaboration between Ghana and Burkina Faso in the realm of public policy and human resource management. She stressed that while technology like AI provides the tools for growth, the "human capital" element remains indispensable to the success of any technological reform. The HR Café facilitated a space for sharing best practices between the two West African nations, aiming to create a synchronized approach to public service excellence that transcends borders and addresses shared regional challenges. Despite the impressive financial returns, the Deputy Chief of Staff issued a cautionary note regarding the rapid adoption of automation. She warned of the potential for job displacement and the critical importance of robust data security protocols to protect sensitive national information. Moving forward, the government advocates for a "balanced approach" that prioritizes the reskilling of the workforce alongside technological investments. By ensuring that AI complements rather than replaces human expertise, the administration aims to mitigate social risks while continuing to harness the efficiency gains of the digital age.

Arm Holdings CEO Rene Haas Highlights AI’s Potential for Cancer Cure Amid Critical Chip Shortage
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Arm Holdings CEO Rene Haas Highlights AI’s Potential for Cancer Cure Amid Critical Chip Shortage

Rene Haas, the Chief Executive Officer of Arm Holdings, has highlighted the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) while warning that hardware constraints are currently impeding its full potential. Haas suggested that AI holds the capability to discover cures for complex diseases like cancer—solutions that may remain beyond human reach—within our lifetimes. However, the CEO noted that this breakthrough is being significantly slowed by a persistent global shortage of high-performance semiconductor chips, which are essential for training and running the advanced models required for such complex medical research. The shortage comes at a pivotal moment when the demand for processing power is at an all-time high. Haas emphasized that while AI’s capacity to solve intricate medical puzzles is expected to evolve rapidly, the physical infrastructure to support these computations is lagging. Arm Holdings, the UK’s largest technology firm, plays a central role in this global ecosystem, as its chip architectures are integral to the vast majority of modern computing devices. Despite the massive ongoing demand for Arm-designed technology, the physical manufacturing and supply of these components remain a bottleneck for the broader technological and medical industries. Beyond the scope of healthcare, Haas also offered a glimpse into the near future of automation, predicting the imminent arrival of humanoid robots. He envisions these machines transforming various industries by performing tasks that are currently labor-intensive or dangerous for humans. This evolution, much like the advancements in medicine, relies heavily on the continued development of efficient semiconductor technology. Haas remains optimistic about the pace of innovation, suggesting that humanoid robotics will emerge sooner than many anticipate, provided the industry can address the underlying hardware limitations. Addressing the industrial landscape in the United Kingdom, Haas expressed skepticism regarding the possibility of large-scale chip manufacturing returning to British soil. While the UK remains a global leader in semiconductor design and intellectual property through companies like Arm, Haas noted that the capital-intensive nature of semiconductor fabrication makes a domestic manufacturing revival unlikely in the current environment. Consequently, the focus remains on design and architectural innovation to drive the next generation of AI-led breakthroughs in both robotics and global health.

Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah Explores Chinese Green Technologies to Modernize Ghana’s Mining Sector
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Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah Explores Chinese Green Technologies to Modernize Ghana’s Mining Sector

Ghana’s Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has initiated a strategic push to integrate advanced green technologies into the nation's mining industry. During a recent high-level visit to China, the Minister toured the facilities of Longking, a prominent company specializing in environmental protection and sustainable industrial solutions. The visit focused on identifying technologies that can mitigate the environmental impact of mining, specifically targeting the reduction of fossil fuel emissions through the adoption of cleaner, more efficient energy systems. Central to the discussions was China’s rapid advancement in electric mobility, particularly the development of electric heavy-duty trucks and specialized environmental installations. Minister Buah emphasized that the transition to electric machinery is essential for the modernization of Ghana’s extractive sector. By replacing traditional diesel-powered equipment with electric alternatives, the ministry aims to significantly lower the carbon footprint of mining operations while enhancing overall environmental management and operational efficiency on site. In a move to ensure long-term sustainability, Minister Buah extended an official invitation to Longking to establish a physical presence in Ghana. This proposed partnership is designed to go beyond mere equipment procurement, focusing instead on building local technical capacity and fostering a robust ecosystem for electric mobility within the country. This initiative aligns with the broader goals of President John Mahama’s administration to enhance the sustainability of Ghana’s natural resource management and ensure the mining sector remains competitive in a global market increasingly focused on green standards.

Minister Sam George Announces $7,000 Monthly DTT Tariff for TV Stations Effective January 2027
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Minister Sam George Announces $7,000 Monthly DTT Tariff for TV Stations Effective January 2027

Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam Nartey George, has officially announced that television stations operating on Ghana’s National Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) platform will be required to pay a monthly tariff of US$7,000 starting in January 2027. This decision follows a comprehensive review of the DTT system and aims to establish a sustainable cost-sharing framework for the country's digital broadcasting infrastructure. The announcement marks a significant step in the current administration’s efforts to modernize Ghana’s digital landscape while ensuring the long-term viability of the national broadcasting network. The new financing model is designed to transition the DTT platform from a government-dependent funding structure to a more balanced approach where broadcasters contribute to operational and maintenance costs. Minister George emphasized that the three-year lead time before the tariff takes effect is intended to support TV stations during the transition period, allowing them to adjust their business models and financial planning. This sustainable model is expected to provide the necessary resources to maintain high-quality digital signals and expand the reach of the platform across the nation, ensuring that digital migration remains a success. Beyond the DTT platform updates, the Ministry is also spearheading a broader overhaul of Ghana’s technology sector to reflect current global standards. Minister Sam George revealed that the government is currently reviewing 15 pieces of ICT-related legislation to ensure the legal framework keeps pace with rapid digital advancements. Among these, consultations for priority legislation, including the Data Harmonisation Bill and the Cybersecurity Authority Bill, have already been completed. These legislative efforts are part of a wider strategy under President John Mahama to create a robust, secure, and integrated digital ecosystem that protects consumer data and strengthens national security. As the January 2027 deadline approaches, the Ministry for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations intends to maintain an open dialogue with stakeholders in the broadcasting industry to address potential challenges and ensure a smooth implementation of the new tariff structure. This move is seen as a pivotal moment for Ghana’s media industry as it moves toward self-sufficiency in the digital age. The successful integration of these new fees, alongside the passage of updated ICT laws, is expected to fortify Ghana’s position as a leader in digital innovation and regulatory excellence within the West African sub-region.

Ghana to Implement Real-Time Biometric SIM Verification by 2026 Following 16-Year Identity Evolution
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Ghana to Implement Real-Time Biometric SIM Verification by 2026 Following 16-Year Identity Evolution

Ghana is set to implement a new real-time biometric verification system for SIM cards by 2026, marking a significant milestone in the country’s 16-year journey toward securing its telecommunications landscape. This move, overseen by the administration of President John Mahama, aims to address persistent data integrity gaps and combat the rising tide of mobile fraud. The transition from basic identification methods to sophisticated biometric synchronization represents a fundamental shift in how the state manages digital identity and national security in an increasingly connected world. The journey toward a secure mobile ecosystem began in July 2010 when mandatory SIM registration was first introduced to link mobile numbers to identifiable individuals. This initial phase laid the groundwork for a more robust second phase between 2021 and 2023, which mandated the use of the Ghana Card for registration. During this period, millions of Ghanaians submitted biometric data to mobile network operators, though the process was often hampered by significant logistical hurdles, including long queues and technical system failures that delayed the national transition. Despite these multi-year efforts, a 2025 validation exercise revealed significant discrepancies in SIM data integrity, prompting the government to pursue more advanced technical solutions. To resolve these vulnerabilities, authorities are introducing the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) and a more rigorous verification process. The upcoming system will perform real-time biometric checks against the National Identification Authority (NIA) database, ensuring that every SIM card in use is legitimately tied to a verified identity and making it nearly impossible for fraudulent actors to bypass registration protocols. As Ghana prepares for the 2026 rollout, the focus remains on enhancing device management and deterring fraudulent activities that have historically plagued the mobile money and telecommunications sectors. This technological overhaul is expected to provide a more secure digital environment for citizens while streamlining the interaction between telecommunications companies and national security agencies. The success of this initiative will depend on the seamless integration between the NIA and mobile network operators to avoid the registration bottlenecks and public frustration experienced during previous registration cycles.

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Communication Minister Sam George Announces Completion of 1,890 Telecel Ghana Network Sites

The Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has announced a major milestone in the expansion of Ghana's telecommunications infrastructure. According to the Minister, Telecel Ghana has successfully completed the installation of 1,890 new network sites across the country. This development is part of a large-scale investment strategy aimed at enhancing the quality of service and expanding the reach of digital connectivity to support the nation's growing technological needs. The current progress serves as a stepping stone toward a more ambitious target for the telecommunications provider. Minister George revealed that Telecel aims to complete a total of 2,698 network sites by the end of 2026. This infrastructure drive is specifically focused on boosting 4G coverage nationwide, ensuring that high-speed data services are more accessible to both urban centers and previously underserved rural communities. The significant increase in network density is expected to reduce call drops and provide more stable internet speeds for millions of subscribers. This initiative aligns with the government's broader digital transformation agenda, which seeks to leverage technology for economic growth and improved public service delivery. By strengthening the country’s network backbone, the Ministry expects to see a positive ripple effect across various sectors, including e-commerce, education, and fintech. As Telecel works toward its year-end 2026 goal, the government remains committed to facilitating an environment that encourages private sector investment in critical digital infrastructure, ensuring that Ghana remains a competitive hub for innovation in the West African sub-region.