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.

MTN Ghana's Richard Acheampong Urges Household Shift to Fibre Broadband for Stable Connectivity
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MTN Ghana's Richard Acheampong Urges Household Shift to Fibre Broadband for Stable Connectivity

MTN Ghana is intensifying its push for household adoption of fibre broadband technology to meet the country's surging demand for reliable home internet. Speaking at the July 2026 edition of the "Bright Conversations" series, MTN Ghana’s Chief Home Officer, Richard Acheampong, highlighted the critical role of high-speed connectivity in supporting the shift toward remote work, online education, and digital entertainment. As the nation's digital landscape evolves, the telecommunications giant is positioning fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) as the essential backbone for modern, connected Ghanaian households. Mr. Acheampong observed that while many Ghanaians currently rely on mobile data for their home internet needs, these solutions often fall short of providing the consistency required for high-capacity digital activities. Unlike mobile technology, which can fluctuate based on signal strength and network congestion, fibre broadband offers superior stability and speed. It is specifically designed to support multiple users and devices simultaneously without a drop in performance, making it an indispensable tool for families juggling professional tasks and virtual schooling under one roof. During the discussions, MTN emphasized the distinct advantages of fixed broadband over mobile technologies, including 5G. While 5G provides impressive mobile speeds, fibre connectivity remains the gold standard for high-capacity, stable internet essential for a "future-ready" home. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to bridge the digital divide in Ghana, ensuring that homes, businesses, and educational institutions have the infrastructure necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital global economy. Looking ahead, MTN Ghana has reiterated its commitment to expanding its fibre infrastructure and educating the public on its long-term benefits. By investing in robust connectivity, the company aims to foster digital inclusion and empower citizens to fully participate in the digital transformation. As demand for data-intensive services continues to rise, the transition from mobile-centric data usage to dedicated home fibre is expected to be a pivotal factor in Ghana’s socio-economic development and technological progress.

Ghana AI Summit & Awards 2026 Unveils Shortlist; IPMC Ghana and Industry Leaders Nominated
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Ghana AI Summit & Awards 2026 Unveils Shortlist; IPMC Ghana and Industry Leaders Nominated

The organizers of the Ghana AI Summit & Awards 2026 have officially released the shortlist for this year’s prestigious awards ceremony, marking a significant milestone in the country's journey toward technological excellence. Set to take place from July 29 to 30, 2026, in Accra, the summit aims to celebrate the groundbreaking contributions of individuals, startups, and established organizations within Ghana's burgeoning artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem. By recognizing those at the forefront of digital innovation, the event highlights the critical role of AI in driving the nation's economic transformation and global competitiveness. The selection process for the nominees was described as highly competitive, focusing on excellence in innovation and the tangible social impact of AI solutions. Key award categories include Best AI Company, Best AI for Social Good, AI Personality of the Year, and Most Promising AI Idea. Among the notable nominees featured in the shortlist are industry giants like IPMC Ghana, as well as influential individuals such as Gideon Asare, Matthew Nyaaba, and Enoch Ansong. To ensure the integrity and transparency of the selection process, Deloitte Ghana has been engaged to provide award assurance services, reflecting the high standards the organizers aim to maintain for this landmark event. Beyond the individual accolades, the Ghana AI Summit & Awards 2026 serves as a platform for fostering collaboration and promoting the responsible development of technology across various sectors. The summit is expected to bring together policymakers, tech entrepreneurs, and academic researchers to discuss the future of AI in Ghana. By showcasing domestic success stories, the organizers hope to inspire a new generation of innovators to leverage AI for social good and sustainable development. As Accra prepares to host this gathering, the event stands as a testament to the growing momentum of the Ghanaian tech sector and its commitment to ethical and impactful technological advancement.

China's Shenguan Qicaihe Solar Station Models Integrated Energy and Agriculture Solutions for Ghana
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China's Shenguan Qicaihe Solar Station Models Integrated Energy and Agriculture Solutions for Ghana

The Shenguan Qicaihe Photovoltaic Power Station in China's Hebei province has emerged as a landmark model for the integration of renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, offering critical insights for Ghana’s green energy ambitions. This massive 300-megawatt solar farm, spanning approximately 6.6 square kilometers, demonstrates that large-scale energy production does not have to come at the expense of land utility. By transforming a previously desertified landscape into a productive hub, the project highlights the potential for green technology to revitalize degraded land while contributing significantly to national power grids. Central to the facility's success is a sophisticated rotational grazing system that allows livestock to roam beneath the solar panels. This innovative approach ensures that electricity generation and animal husbandry coexist without disruption, solving a common land-use conflict where solar installations occupy space otherwise needed for farming. The panels provide shade for the animals and help preserve soil moisture, while the livestock help manage vegetation naturally, creating a symbiotic relationship that maximizes the economic and environmental value of the land. As China pushes toward its ambitious goal of carbon neutrality by 2060, projects like Shenguan Qicaihe serve as a global blueprint, particularly for developing nations such as Ghana. For Ghana, which faces ongoing challenges in energy access and a historical reliance on fossil fuels, the "solar-plus-agriculture" model presents a viable path toward sustainable economic growth. Adopting such multifaceted energy solutions could help the country meet its international climate commitments while bolstering food security and supporting rural livelihoods simultaneously. Ultimately, the success of the Hebei site underscores the transformative power of renewable energy when paired with thoughtful environmental stewardship. For African policymakers and energy experts, the lesson is clear: the transition to clean energy provides an opportunity not just to generate power, but to rethink land management and agricultural resilience. By exploring these integrated technologies, Ghana can navigate its energy transition in a way that is both ecologically sound and economically inclusive, ensuring a more resilient future for its citizens.

NCA Revokes Next Gen Infraco’s Exclusive Rights to Ghana’s 5G Infrastructure
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NCA Revokes Next Gen Infraco’s Exclusive Rights to Ghana’s 5G Infrastructure

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has officially amended the Wholesale Electronic Communications Infrastructure Licence of Next Gen Infraco Limited (NGIC), ending its period as the sole provider of wholesale 5G infrastructure in Ghana. Effective July 15, 2026, the regulatory decision marks a significant shift in the country's telecommunications landscape. By removing NGIC’s exclusivity, the NCA aims to liberalize the 5G market, ensuring that the rollout of high-speed connectivity is driven by market competition rather than a single-entity monopoly.\n\nThis decision followed a comprehensive review by the NCA, which concluded that the evolving dynamics of the telecommunications sector required a more open approach. The regulator emphasized that fostering a competitive environment is essential to attract more investment into the sector and stimulate technological innovation. According to the NCA, opening the wholesale 5G market will lead to improved service quality and more competitive pricing for consumers, ultimately serving the broader public interest as Ghana seeks to accelerate its digital transformation.\n\nDespite the loss of its exclusive wholesale rights, NGIC will continue to operate under its existing license with its other privileges intact. This includes the retention of its spectrum assignments, which allows the company to remain a key player in the 5G ecosystem. The transition from a monopoly to a competitive wholesale model is expected to provide other infrastructure providers with the opportunity to enter the market, potentially speeding up the national deployment of 5G services beyond major urban centers.\n\nThe policy reversal signals a more flexible regulatory stance by the Ghanaian government as it navigates the complexities of modernizing its digital infrastructure. As the July 2026 deadline approaches, industry stakeholders will be watching closely to see how new entrants might reshape the market and what specific criteria the NCA will establish for future wholesale 5G licenses. For now, the move is being viewed as a strategic pivot to ensure Ghana remains a competitive hub for telecommunications in the West African sub-region.

Amazon to Challenge Starlink in South Africa with 2027 Satellite Internet Launch
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Amazon to Challenge Starlink in South Africa with 2027 Satellite Internet Launch

Amazon has officially announced plans to introduce its satellite internet services to South Africa through its low-Earth orbit (LEO) network, Amazon Leo. This strategic entry into the South African market comes at a time when Elon Musk's Starlink continues to navigate complex regulatory hurdles within the country. In a move that marks Amazon’s first such agreement on the African continent, the tech giant is partnering with local internet service provider Herotel to roll out a service branded as "Evry," aimed at expanding high-speed connectivity across the region. The partnership with Herotel is central to Amazon's strategy to bypass the difficulties encountered by other global satellite providers. While the commercial launch of the Evry service is slated for 2027, the groundwork is being laid to provide competition in a sector currently dominated by traditional fiber and mobile networks. This development is particularly significant given the ongoing struggles of SpaceX’s Starlink to secure an operating license in South Africa. Starlink’s entry has been stalled by stringent local ownership requirements, which mandate that a percentage of a company’s ownership be held by historically disadvantaged groups—a policy intended to drive economic empowerment within the nation. Despite the ambitious nature of the launch, Amazon faces a substantial gap in infrastructure compared to its primary rival. Currently, the Amazon Leo project has deployed over 390 satellites, a figure that remains dwarfed by Starlink’s expansive constellation of over 10,000 satellites orbiting the globe. However, Amazon’s focus on strategic local partnerships like the one with Herotel suggests a localized approach intended to clear the regulatory path that has proven so difficult for Musk’s SpaceX, which has yet to meet the specific BEE (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment) criteria required for a South African license. The arrival of Amazon Leo's Evry service in 2027 is expected to significantly impact the digital landscape in South Africa, potentially lowering costs and increasing internet accessibility in rural or underserved areas. As the launch date approaches, industry observers will be watching closely to see if Amazon can maintain its timeline and if other African nations will follow South Africa’s lead in adopting Amazon’s satellite technology. For now, the move positions Amazon as a formidable future player in the race for orbital internet dominance in Africa, leveraging local compliance as a competitive advantage.

Nana Yaw Amoah-Yeboah Appointed NITA Director-General as Communications Minister Outlines Sector Reforms
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Nana Yaw Amoah-Yeboah Appointed NITA Director-General as Communications Minister Outlines Sector Reforms

The Minister for Communication, Samuel Nartey George, has officially introduced Nana Yaw Amoah-Yeboah as the new Director-General of the National Information Technology Agency (NITA). This leadership change marks a pivotal moment in Ghana’s ongoing efforts to modernize its digital infrastructure and governance. The appointment comes as part of a strategic reorganization of the agency, aimed at enhancing its capacity to oversee the nation’s rapidly evolving information technology landscape and ensuring that the public sector remains competitive in the global digital economy. During the introduction ceremony, the Minister acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing Director-General, Dr. Mark-Oliver Kevor, thanking him for his service and his role in laying the foundation for current initiatives. The transition to Mr. Amoah-Yeboah, an experienced professional within the technology sector, is intended to bring fresh perspectives and technical expertise to the agency. The Minister emphasized that the new leadership will be central to implementing a series of high-impact reforms designed to strengthen the regulatory framework governing the digital sector. A central component of these upcoming reforms involves the NITA Act, which is set to undergo significant changes to separate the agency's regulatory responsibilities from its commercial functions. This legislative shift is intended to eliminate potential conflicts of interest and streamline operations, allowing NITA to provide more robust oversight of the private sector while simultaneously managing the government's digital assets more efficiently. Industry observers view this structural change as a necessary step toward creating a more transparent and accountable digital environment in Ghana. In his acceptance remarks, Nana Yaw Amoah-Yeboah expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead and reiterated his commitment to advancing a secure, resilient, and digitally inclusive public service. He highlighted that his immediate focus would be on leveraging emerging technologies to improve service delivery and ensuring that Ghana’s digital growth benefits all segments of the population. As NITA moves forward under this new leadership, the agency is expected to play a critical role in bridging the digital divide and securing the nation's digital future.

Wastle Launches Digital Waste Management Platform to Tackle Ghana's Sanitation Crisis and Promote Circular Economy
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Wastle Launches Digital Waste Management Platform to Tackle Ghana's Sanitation Crisis and Promote Circular Economy

Wastle, a technology-driven waste management firm, has officially launched a digital platform aimed at revolutionizing waste collection services across Ghana. The new mobile application provides a streamlined solution for households, businesses, and institutions to request waste pick-ups directly from their smartphones, effectively removing the traditional dependency on mobile waste collectors who pass by at irregular intervals. This technological intervention comes at a critical time for the nation, as statistics indicate that poor sanitation costs Ghana over GH"6 billion annually—a staggering figure that highlights the urgent need for more efficient and modernized waste management infrastructure. Beyond mere convenience, the platform is designed to champion environmental sustainability and the principles of a circular economy. Alex Kwame Donyinah, the Managing Partner for Operations at Wastle, emphasized that the app serves as a catalyst for promoting waste segregation at the source. By digitizing the process, Wastle aims to encourage users to separate recyclable materials, thereby reducing the volume of waste sent to landfills and fostering a more sustainable ecosystem. Donyinah noted that the initiative is not just about collection, but about changing the national mindset toward waste as a resource that can be reintegrated into the economy through proper processing. The initial rollout of the service is focused on selected constituencies within Accra, with a strategic vision for nationwide expansion in the near future. The launch has received significant local backing, notably from Member of Parliament John Setor Dumelo, who lauded the initiative for its potential to mitigate the perennial flooding issues that plague the capital. These flooding incidents are often exacerbated by blocked drainage systems resulting from improper waste disposal. By providing a reliable and accessible digital collection service, Wastle aims to reduce the environmental degradation and public health risks associated with uncollected waste in major urban centers.

China’s 300MW Shenguan Qicaihe Solar Project Offers Sustainable Energy and Agricultural Blueprint for Ghana
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China’s 300MW Shenguan Qicaihe Solar Project Offers Sustainable Energy and Agricultural Blueprint for Ghana

The Shenguan Qicaihe Photovoltaic Power Station in China's Hebei province has emerged as a global benchmark for the integration of renewable energy and sustainable agriculture. By transforming a once-desertified landscape into a high-capacity 300-megawatt solar farm, the project demonstrates a harmonious balance between technological advancement and environmental restoration. For nations like Ghana, which are currently navigating the complexities of energy transitions and land-use competition, the Chinese model provides a compelling blueprint for a green energy future that supports rather than displaces traditional livelihoods. Spanning approximately 6.6 square kilometers, the facility utilizes an innovative rotational grazing system that allows livestock to roam freely among the solar arrays. This approach ensures that the land remains agriculturally productive while contributing significantly to the regional power grid. The design of the station mitigates the common challenge of solar infrastructure occupying arable land, instead creating a synergistic environment where the panels provide shade for the grass and animals, while the livestock help manage vegetation growth. This initiative is a critical component of China's broader strategic goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, showcasing the scalability of mixed-use green energy projects. The success of the Shenguan Qicaihe project offers profound lessons for Ghana and the wider African continent as they strive to overcome energy access deficits and a heavy reliance on fossil fuels. By adopting a similar "solar-plus-agriculture" framework, Ghana could potentially revitalize underutilized or degraded lands to bolster its national grid and support rural economies simultaneously. As the global community moves toward a post-carbon era, such integrated solutions represent a vital pathway for sustainable economic growth, ensuring that the transition to clean energy also contributes to food security and ecological resilience.

NCA Ends Next Gen Infraco’s Exclusive Monopoly on Ghana’s Wholesale 5G Infrastructure
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NCA Ends Next Gen Infraco’s Exclusive Monopoly on Ghana’s Wholesale 5G Infrastructure

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has officially terminated the exclusive rights of Next Gen Infraco Limited (NGIC) to provide wholesale 5G infrastructure in Ghana. Effective July 15, 2026, this landmark regulatory decision signals a major shift in the country's telecommunications strategy, moving away from a single-provider model toward a more open and competitive marketplace. By amending NGIC’s Wholesale Electronic Communications Infrastructure Licence, the NCA aims to accelerate the rollout of high-speed connectivity while ensuring that the public benefits from diverse service options. The NCA’s decision follows a comprehensive review of the current telecommunications landscape and evolving market dynamics. According to the authority, removing NGIC’s exclusivity is essential to fostering an environment that encourages increased investment and technological innovation. The regulator believes that a competitive market will naturally drive improvements in service quality, making 5G technology more accessible and efficient for businesses and consumers across Ghana. This move aligns with global trends where multiple infrastructure providers often coexist to prevent bottlenecks and promote resilience in digital services. Despite the loss of its monopoly, Next Gen Infraco Limited will continue to play a significant role in Ghana’s digital ecosystem. The NCA clarified that the amendment only removes the exclusivity clause; NGIC maintains all other rights granted under its original licence, including its critical spectrum assignments. As the market opens up, industry observers expect other telecommunications companies and infrastructure providers to explore new opportunities within the wholesale 5G space. This regulatory pivot is expected to catalyze the digital economy, providing the robust infrastructure necessary for Ghana’s next phase of technological advancement.

Amazon to Challenge Starlink with 2027 Satellite Internet Launch in South Africa via Herotel Partnership
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Amazon to Challenge Starlink with 2027 Satellite Internet Launch in South Africa via Herotel Partnership

Amazon has officially announced its entry into the South African satellite internet market, signaling a major challenge to Elon Musk’s Starlink. Through its low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network, Amazon Leo, the tech giant plans to offer a new service named 'Evry' in partnership with local internet service provider Herotel. This strategic move, announced on Wednesday, marks Amazon’s first major agreement for its satellite internet project on the African continent, setting the stage for a commercial rollout scheduled for 2027. The development is expected to provide a new alternative for high-speed connectivity in a region hungry for expanded digital infrastructure. The timing of Amazon's announcement is particularly significant given the regulatory difficulties faced by its primary rival, SpaceX's Starlink. While Starlink has successfully launched services in several other African nations, it has hit a wall in South Africa due to strict local ownership requirements. South African regulations necessitate that companies provide a 30% share of ownership to historically disadvantaged groups, a mandate that Starlink has yet to satisfy. By partnering with Herotel, an established South African provider, Amazon appears to be navigating the local landscape with a focus on compliance and strategic collaboration to avoid similar licensing hurdles. Despite the ambitious plans for South Africa, Amazon currently trails significantly behind Starlink in terms of orbital infrastructure. To date, Amazon has launched approximately 390 satellites for its Leo network, a fraction of the more than 10,000 satellites currently operated by SpaceX globally. However, the partnership with Herotel is designed to leverage local expertise and existing customer bases to bridge the digital divide in South Africa, targeting areas where traditional fiber and mobile networks remain limited or non-existent. As the 2027 launch date approaches, the entry of Amazon Leo into the market is expected to drive competition and potentially lower costs for high-speed internet access across the region. The 'Evry' service represents a critical component of Amazon’s broader strategy to expand its global connectivity footprint and compete directly with established satellite providers. For South Africa, the arrival of another major global player could accelerate digital inclusion and economic growth, provided the company successfully meets the country's stringent empowerment criteria that have so far stalled its competitors.

Wastle Launches Digital Waste Management Platform to Tackle Ghana’s GH¢6 Billion Sanitation Crisis
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Wastle Launches Digital Waste Management Platform to Tackle Ghana’s GH¢6 Billion Sanitation Crisis

Wastle, a technology-driven waste management firm, has officially launched a digital platform aimed at revolutionizing waste collection services for households, businesses, and institutions across Ghana. This innovative mobile application allows users to schedule and request waste pickup directly from their smartphones, providing a modern alternative to the traditional, often unreliable method of waiting for roving collectors. The launch comes at a critical time for the nation, as current estimates suggest that poor sanitation practices drain the Ghanaian economy of more than GH¢6 billion annually. By digitizing this essential service, Wastle seeks to bridge the gap between waste generation and efficient disposal through technology. Beyond mere collection, the platform is designed to champion broader environmental goals and operational efficiency. According to Alex Kwame Donyinah, Wastle’s Managing Partner for Operations, the initiative is central to promoting a circular economy within the waste management sector. The application is built to encourage waste segregation at the source, which simplifies recycling processes and promotes long-term environmental sustainability. By providing a structured and trackable system for waste disposal, the company aims to reduce the prevalence of illegal dumping and improve the overall cleanliness of urban environments, effectively turning waste into a resource rather than a liability. The digital service has initially been deployed in selected constituencies within Accra, receiving significant backing from local leadership. John Setor Dumelo, a Member of Parliament within the launch zone, praised the initiative for its potential to mitigate local sanitation issues, particularly in areas prone to seasonal flooding often exacerbated by clogged drainage systems. Looking ahead, Wastle intends to scale its operations beyond the capital, with plans for a phased nationwide rollout to bring digital waste solutions to all major urban centers in Ghana. This expansion is expected to foster a more organized, data-driven, and environmentally conscious approach to municipal service delivery across the country.

Minister Sam Nartey George Reverses GDCL Contract Suspensions, Assures Staff of Job Security Post-Floods
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Minister Sam Nartey George Reverses GDCL Contract Suspensions, Assures Staff of Job Security Post-Floods

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam Nartey George, has provided a firm assurance to the employees of the Ghana Digital Centres Limited (GDCL) that their jobs remain secure despite the recent operational disruptions. During a meeting held on July 13, 2026, the Minister formally announced the Ministry's decision to reverse a previous management directive that had sought to suspend employment contracts. This intervention follows the heavy flooding on June 29, 2026, which caused significant damage to the Accra Digital Centre and prompted management to reconsider staffing levels during the recovery period. Developing the narrative behind the decision, the Minister emphasized that the government is committed to protecting the workforce of the state-owned technology hub. While the damage from the June 29 floods created immediate logistical challenges, the Ministry viewed the suspension of contracts as an unnecessary burden on the staff. By stepping in to overturn the management's initial plan, the Minister aimed to stabilize morale and ensure that the recovery efforts are conducted without the threat of job losses for the dedicated personnel at the facility. Beyond immediate job security, the Minister outlined a broader vision for the future of the Ghana Digital Centres Limited. He highlighted the necessity for the organization to transform into a more financially viable and self-sustaining enterprise. This strategic shift involves significant improvements in corporate governance and a push for greater operational efficiency. According to the Minister, these reforms are essential to ensure that the state-owned tech hub can withstand future shocks and reduce its reliance on emergency government interventions while continuing to serve as a cornerstone of Ghana's digital infrastructure. The reassurance from the Ministry marks a critical turning point for GDCL as it moves from crisis management to a phase of structural reform. As the Accra Digital Centre undergoes repairs, the focus will now shift toward implementing the promised governance improvements to secure the long-term sustainability of the institution. This move signals the government's broader intent to safeguard national technology assets and the human capital that drives the country's digital economy, ensuring that natural disasters do not derail Ghana's technological progress.