Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations Minister Samuel Nartey George announced that rural communities in Ghana could begin enjoying cheaper calls and data services by the end of the first quarter of 2027.
The move follows a review of current charging arrangements on rural telephony networks, allowing subscribers to use their existing voice and data bundles when connected to rural sites. George said the policy directive had already been issued to reverse the current arrangement, with the National Communications Authority (NCA) engaging operators on the required technical integration.
During a tour of rural telephony sites in the Eastern Region, the minister highlighted that rural services cost more than in urban areas, an unfair situation he said makes no sense. He also revealed plans to upgrade rural sites to at least 4G, arguing that communities should not remain dependent on 2G and 3G as Ghana moves toward 5G.
The government has allocated about GH¢30 million to rural telephony under the 2026 GIFEC budget, with US$400 000 earmarked for immediate remedial works on 20 sites. Currently, about 1,400 rural sites carry traffic, while another 300 completed sites await connection to donor sites.
Major network expansion is underway: MTN is deploying 800 new sites, with 180 already completed, and Telecel is expected to deploy about 350. The government targets about 400 MTN sites by the end of 2026 and full operationalisation by Q1‑Q2 2027. The combined expansion and the ongoing 5G spectrum auction should help reduce congestion and improve service quality nationwide.
What to watch: The rollout timeline and the impact on rural connectivity will be closely monitored as the ministry works with the NCA, GIFEC and mobile operators to implement the changes.
