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.

Samuel Nartey George, Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, speaking during the Government Accountability Series
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Minister Samuel Nartey George Outlines Strategy to Combat Chronic Fibre Cuts and Grid Instability

The Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has identified the twin challenges of frequent fibre optic cable cuts and national power grid instability as the most significant threats to Ghana’s network quality. Speaking on the current state of digital infrastructure, the Minister revealed a troubling trend in service disruptions that continues to affect millions of citizens. Data indicates that during the first half of 2023, the country recorded 4,289 fibre cuts, with projections suggesting that these incidents could rise to over 8,500 annually if the trend remains unchecked. These outages not only frustrate consumers but also undermine the broader digitalization agenda under the current administration. A significant portion of these infrastructure failures is attributed to road construction projects, where excavation work frequently damages underground fibre lines. To resolve this, the Minister announced that a "Dig Once Policy" is currently pending approval. This policy is designed to streamline infrastructure development by requiring the installation of fibre conduits during the initial phases of road construction. By integrating digital infrastructure into civil works, the government hopes to eliminate the need for subsequent excavations that put existing networks at risk. Additionally, the Ministry plans to enforce stringent penalties against contractors who fail to safeguard telecom assets during their operations. In addition to physical cable damage, the Ministry is addressing the impact of an unstable power grid on digital services. Minister George noted that collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and GRIDCo is essential to build power resilience, as network stability is inextricably linked to a consistent electricity supply. Despite these operational hurdles, major industry players such as MTN Ghana and Telecel are moving forward with substantial investments. These efforts are focused on modernizing rural connectivity and expanding network capabilities to ensure that even the most remote areas can benefit from reliable digital access as the government works to fortify the national backbone.

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 Sam George Assures Public on Telecom Mast Safety and Announces 6,000 New Cell Sites

Ghana's Minister of Communication, Samuel Nartey George, has moved to allay public fears regarding the health impacts of telecommunications infrastructure, asserting that cell towers and masts pose no risk to citizens. Speaking in response to specific concerns raised about a new installation in Koforidua, the Minister emphasized that the government prioritizes public health above all else. He clarified that all telecommunications equipment in the country must pass rigorous certification and monitoring processes to ensure they operate within safe radiation limits, providing a necessary backbone for the nation's digital economy. To maintain these high safety standards, the Minister highlighted the collaborative regulatory framework involving the National Communications Authority (NCA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA). Mr. George noted that scientific evidence consistently demonstrates that the non-ionizing radiation emitted by these masts is far below levels that could cause harm to human health. By enforcing strict adherence to these guidelines, the government ensures that the expansion of connectivity does not come at the expense of community well-being. Looking toward the future of Ghana's digital landscape, Minister George announced a significant network expansion project that will see the addition of 6,000 new cell sites across the country. This initiative is designed to drastically improve service quality, eliminate dead zones, and increase overall network capacity. Parallel to this physical infrastructure growth, the Minister also promoted the One Million Coders Programme, an initiative aimed at enhancing digital literacy and technical skills. He reported strong participation from the academic community, noting that the programme is already empowering students and universities to lead Ghana's technological evolution.

Apple CEO John Ternus Unveils $1,999 Foldable iPhone Duo and Siri AI
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Apple CEO John Ternus Unveils $1,999 Foldable iPhone Duo and Siri AI

In a significant move for Apple’s new leadership, CEO John Ternus has introduced the iPhone Duo, the company’s first foldable smartphone, during his inaugural public appearance. Starting at a price of $1,999, the device represents Apple’s entry into a competitive market currently led by brands such as Huawei. The launch is seen as a major strategic shift, positioning the company to compete in the high-end foldable segment while maintaining its reputation for premium hardware. Alongside the Duo, Apple also revealed the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, ensuring a comprehensive update to its smartphone portfolio. The iPhone Duo features a unique design that transforms from a traditional smartphone form factor into a display reminiscent of a small iPad when unfolded. Ternus highlighted that the device was engineered to provide a superior user experience compared to existing foldables on the market, focusing on design innovation and seamless integration. This transition from phone to tablet-style usage aims to capture users looking for both portability and a larger canvas for productivity. However, market analysts have pointed out the challenges ahead, noting the device's high price point and the established dominance of competitors in this specific niche. In addition to the new hardware, Apple introduced "Siri AI," an enhanced version of its digital assistant that leverages new artificial intelligence capabilities. A primary focus of Siri AI is user privacy, a move intended to differentiate Apple's AI offerings from those of other tech giants. By emphasizing on-device processing and data security, the company hopes to reassure users about the safety of their personal information while providing more advanced and intuitive digital assistance. This software evolution is expected to be a core feature across the new iPhone 18 lineup and the iPhone Duo. As John Ternus takes the lead, the success of the iPhone Duo will be a key indicator of the company’s direction under his tenure. The high-stakes gamble on a $1,999 foldable device reflects Apple’s willingness to innovate in a maturing smartphone market. Whether the iPhone Duo can successfully challenge Huawei’s current dominance and convince consumers to adopt the new form factor remains to be seen. For now, the combination of advanced AI and bold hardware design marks a new chapter for the technology giant as it seeks to maintain its global influence.

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Cybersecurity Expert David Gyedu Warns of Sophisticated Mobile Money Social Engineering Tactics

Cybersecurity expert David Gyedu has issued a stern warning to Mobile Money (MoMo) and banking customers regarding the rapidly evolving landscape of digital financial fraud. Speaking on the GTV Breakfast Show, Gyedu highlighted a significant shift in criminal strategies, noting that fraudsters have moved beyond basic phishing calls to more advanced social engineering techniques. As Ghana continues to embrace digital transactions, the expert emphasized that the increased reliance on these services has inadvertently created a broader surface for sophisticated scams. \n\nAccording to Gyedu, modern fraud often involves complex psychological manipulation and technical exploits. He specifically pointed to the emergence of 'mobile money PIN malware,' which targets users' private credentials directly through their devices. Furthermore, he cautioned against the proliferation of fraudulent mobile applications that lure victims with false promises of quick loans or high-yield investments. These apps often serve as gateways for criminals to harvest sensitive banking data or exert pressure on individuals to transfer funds under duress. \n\nThe warning extended beyond digital apps to physical points of interaction, such as ATMs. Gyedu advised customers to remain highly vigilant when entering banking credentials in public spaces and to be wary of any suspicious attachments or behavior around automated teller machines. He noted that as the digital ecosystem expands, criminals are increasingly using 'pressure tactics'—convincing victims of false emergencies or legal threats—to bypass standard security instincts and compel immediate, irreversible transactions. \n\nTo mitigate these risks, Gyedu stressed the importance of proactive communication between customers and their financial institutions. He urged users to monitor their accounts closely and report any suspicious activities to their banks immediately to facilitate the blocking of fraudulent transactions. Strengthening public awareness and education remains the primary defense against these emerging threats. Gyedu’s insights serve as a critical reminder that while technology offers convenience, it requires a corresponding level of user vigilance to maintain financial security in an increasingly connected world.

Minister Sam Nartey George Targets Massive Infrastructure Boost as Ghana’s Smartphone Penetration Hits 71.8%
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Minister Sam Nartey George Targets Massive Infrastructure Boost as Ghana’s Smartphone Penetration Hits 71.8%

Ghana has experienced a transformative surge in digital adoption, with smartphone penetration rising from 27.5% in 2016 to 71.8% as of June 2026. Speaking at a Government Accountability Series event, the Minister of Communications, Digitalisation and Innovation, Mr. Sam Nartey George, highlighted how this growth has made mobile connectivity indispensable for everyday life. From business and mobile banking to education and agriculture, Ghanaians are increasingly reliant on digital tools, yet the Minister warned that the physical infrastructure required to support this demand has not kept pace with the rapid adoption of hardware. Evidence of this infrastructure lag is found in the fluctuating numbers of new network site installations over the past decade. While the sector saw a peak of 352 new sites added in 2019, development has slowed significantly in recent years. The Minister reported that only 30 new network sites were recorded in 2024, with a modest 50 sites projected for 2025. This slowdown has particularly affected rural areas, where connectivity gaps remain a barrier to total digital inclusion. Mr. Nartey George criticized these low figures, emphasizing that the current pace is insufficient to meet the needs of a nation where nearly three-quarters of the population now carry a smartphone. To bridge this widening gap, the Ministry is aggressively pushing for an expansion of network capacity. A key component of this strategy involves a directive to MTN to increase its planned new sites for 2026 from 500 to 800. Beyond just increasing the number of towers, the government is prioritizing the technological transition from legacy 2G and 3G services to more robust 4G and 5G networks. These upgrades are deemed essential for supporting modern digital applications that require high-speed data, such as e-learning platforms and sophisticated fintech services that are becoming the backbone of the Ghanaian economy. Closing the disparity between device ownership and network quality remains a top priority for the administration as it seeks to fully leverage the digital economy. By focusing on infrastructure expansion and the deployment of 5G technology, the Ministry aims to ensure that the benefits of the digital revolution are not confined to urban centers. As Ghana moves toward the end of 2026, the success of these infrastructure targets will be critical in determining whether the country can sustain its digital momentum and provide reliable, high-speed access to all citizens, regardless of their location.

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NCA Advances MTN, Telecel, and Goal to Next Phase of Ghana's 5G Spectrum Licensing

The National Communications Authority (NCA) of Ghana has officially announced that three telecommunications firms have successfully passed the technical assessment phase for the country’s 5G spectrum licensing. Scancom Plc (MTN Ghana), Ghana Telecommunications Company Limited (Telecel Ghana), and Goal Telecommunications Ltd were cleared to proceed to the next stage of the competitive process. This development marks a significant milestone in Ghana's journey toward the commercial deployment of fifth-generation (5G) network technology, which promises significantly faster data speeds and improved connectivity for consumers and businesses alike. According to the NCA, all applicants had until August 27, 2026, to submit their bids for the available spectrum. While four companies originally expressed interest and submitted documentation, Infrava Ltd was disqualified after failing to meet the rigorous eligibility requirements set by the regulator. The remaining three successful applicants have been formally notified of their advancement, following a thorough evaluation of their technical submissions to ensure they meet the standards necessary to manage high-capacity digital infrastructure. The process now moves into Stage 3, which focuses on the financial aspects of the licensing. During this phase, the NCA will open and rank the "Best Price Offers" submitted by the qualified companies. The licenses under consideration cover three critical frequency bands: the 700MHz, 2.3GHz, and 3GHz bands. These frequencies are essential for providing the broad coverage and high-capacity data transmission that are the hallmarks of a robust 5G network. The NCA has stated that specific instructions regarding the next stage will be communicated directly to MTN, Telecel, and Goal. This licensing process is a cornerstone of Ghana’s digital transformation agenda, aiming to ensure that the selected providers are both technically capable and financially committed to the long-term infrastructure needs of the telecommunications sector. The successful deployment of 5G is expected to catalyze growth in various sectors, including fintech, healthcare, and education. By facilitating this transition, the NCA is positioning Ghana to remain competitive in the regional digital economy and meet the growing demand for high-speed internet access across the nation.

OpenAI Claims Breakthrough Solution to 90-Year-Old Navier-Stokes Mathematical Mystery
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OpenAI Claims Breakthrough Solution to 90-Year-Old Navier-Stokes Mathematical Mystery

OpenAI has announced a significant milestone in artificial intelligence, claiming to have solved the Navier-Stokes existence and smoothness problem—a complex mathematical challenge that has remained unsolved for nearly a century. Utilizing a specialized new AI model and a massive swarm of approximately 10,000 AI bots, the organization reportedly cracked the problem in just 88 hours. While the claim represents a potential leap forward in computational capabilities, it currently awaits rigorous peer review and official verification by the global mathematical community, specifically the Clay Mathematics Institute. This development is being framed as a testament to the evolving power of AI in handling high-level abstract reasoning. The Navier-Stokes equations describe the motion of fluid substances and are fundamental to physics and engineering. Solving the existence and smoothness problem is one of the seven "Millennium Prize Problems" designated by the Clay Mathematics Institute. Despite the prestige and the $1 million prize associated with a confirmed solution, OpenAI has stated that it does not intend to claim the monetary reward. This decision suggests the organization is prioritizing the demonstration of AI's problem-solving utility over financial incentives, though the move has stirred intense discussion among academics regarding the role of private companies in foundational science. However, the announcement has been met with scrutiny and controversy. Tristan Buckmaster, a mathematician at New York University, has raised concerns regarding the timing of OpenAI's claim, alleging that the organization may have accessed information regarding his own team's ongoing research prior to making its announcement. OpenAI has firmly denied these allegations, clarifying that their work was conducted concurrently but independently. The company maintains that their AI-generated solutions differ significantly from those proposed by Buckmaster and his colleagues, and they emphasized that no private user data was accessed during the process. As the mathematical world reacts to the claim, the next steps involve a lengthy and meticulous verification process. Historically, proofs for Millennium Prize Problems undergo years of scrutiny before being officially accepted. If OpenAI’s solution holds up under peer review, it would mark a historic shift in how fundamental scientific discoveries are made, moving from human-led derivation to AI-driven synthesis. For now, the technology sector and academia remain in a state of cautious observation, waiting to see if this "88-hour miracle" withstands the rigorous standards of traditional mathematical proof.

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.