Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George Announces 4G Upgrades and Affordable Data for Rural Communities by 2027

Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George has unveiled a comprehensive plan to transform Ghana's rural digital landscape, committing to upgrade all Rural Telephony Project (RTP) sites to at least 4G technology. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide by moving underserved areas beyond the limitations of 2G and 3G networks. The Minister emphasized that as global telecommunications systems evolve toward 5G and 6G standards, the current infrastructure in rural communities must be modernized to meet the demands of contemporary digital services. A budget of approximately GH₵30 million has been allocated this year to support these infrastructure expansions and network improvements.

In addition to technical upgrades, the government is moving to make telecommunications services significantly more affordable for rural residents. By the first quarter of 2027, rural subscribers are expected to benefit from reduced call and data costs through a revised charging structure. This reform will allow users to utilize their existing voice and data bundles on rural networks, eliminating the long-standing pricing disparity between urban and rural services. The Ministry is currently collaborating with the National Communications Authority (NCA) and major mobile network operators to implement these pricing adjustments and ensure equitable access across the country.

The scale of the expansion includes the continued management of 1,400 currently operational rural telephony sites, alongside the deployment of 1,150 new sites by major carriers such as MTN and Telecel. Minister Samuel Nartey George noted that telecommunications infrastructure should now be viewed as an essential pillar of national development, equal in importance to roads, schools, and hospitals. Immediate funds have already been directed toward improving 20 specific sites as part of a broader review of the Rural Telephony Project that will soon be presented to the Cabinet.

This strategic shift reflects the government's broader vision of digital inclusion and economic empowerment for all Ghanaians, regardless of their geographical location. By prioritizing 4G connectivity and price parity, the administration aims to reduce network congestion and enhance service quality nationwide. These efforts are expected to create a more integrated national economy where rural entrepreneurs and students can access the same digital opportunities as those in urban centers, setting the stage for Ghana’s continued leadership in regional technological advancement.