By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
Ericsson has reaffirmed its
commitment to Ghana’s digital transformation as the country prepares for the
introduction of 5G, with the company highlighting advanced connectivity as an
important foundation for economic growth, stronger businesses and more digitalised
public services.
Ericsson President and Head
of EMEA Patrick Johansson made the remarks following a visit to Ghana, where he
engaged government officials, regulators and telecommunications industry
stakeholders on the country’s preparations for the next phase of connectivity.
Johansson met with the
Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, including
Minister Samuel Nartey George, as well as leaders of the National
Communications Authority, Suleman Salifu and Etta Mosore.
He also met executives from
Ericsson’s customers to gain insights into market developments and
opportunities emerging from Ghana’s digital transformation agenda.
According to Johansson, 5G
was a key focus of the discussions, alongside network quality, cybersecurity
and resilience, digital skills and the potential application of advanced
connectivity across industries and public services.
He said Ghana’s preparations
for 5G come at an important point in the country’s connectivity journey,
following three decades of Ericsson’s involvement in the development of Ghana’s
telecommunications networks.
Johansson said the
successful deployment of next-generation connectivity will depend on
appropriate spectrum and investment conditions, strong digital skills and
continued cooperation among government, regulators, operators and technology
companies.
He said Ericsson is ready to
bring its global experience in 5G to Ghana as the country prepares for the
rollout.
The company also highlighted
the broader opportunities that advanced connectivity could create, including
improved consumer experiences, stronger enterprise capabilities and more
efficient digital public services.
Johansson said the long-term
development of Ghana’s digital economy would require continued investment and
close engagement between public and private-sector stakeholders rather than
focusing solely on the deployment of network technology.
The visit comes as Ericsson
marks 150 years of global operations, with the company pointing to its
three-decade presence in Ghana as an example of its long-term approach to
working with local markets and partners.
Johansson said the next
milestone for Ghana is approaching and stressed the importance of ensuring that
the country’s next phase of digital growth is built on strong foundations
capable of creating value beyond connectivity itself.
