Editorial
Make 5G Spectrum accessible to all
Dear Editor,
Ghana’s move into the next stage of 5G spectrum licensing is an important development for the country’s digital future. With MTN Ghana, Telecel Ghana and Goal Telecommunications cleared to proceed, expectations will naturally rise among businesses, students, technology professionals and ordinary internet users.
But as Ghana prepares for a more advanced digital era, we must ask a simple question: who will actually benefit from 5G?
Technology should not become meaningful only to people who can afford expensive smartphones, data packages and compatible devices. If 5G is introduced without addressing affordability and accessibility, Ghana risks creating a faster digital highway that many citizens cannot afford to enter.
For students, reliable and affordable internet can mean access to online courses, research materials, remote opportunities and international learning platforms. For small businesses, better connectivity can support digital payments, online marketing, e-commerce and communication with customers. For professionals, it can create opportunities for remote work and participation in the global digital economy.
The government and telecommunications companies must therefore ensure that the 5G rollout goes beyond speed. There should be serious attention to affordability, coverage and digital inclusion. Rural communities should not be forgotten while investment concentrates only on Accra, Kumasi and other major commercial centres.
Telecommunications companies should also communicate clearly with consumers about the actual benefits of 5G, the cost of accessing it and the devices required. Consumers deserve value, not simply another technological label attached to their data plans.
Ghana has an opportunity to use 5G as a tool for economic transformation but that transformation will only be meaningful if the technology reaches beyond corporate offices and wealthy consumers.
The measure of Ghana’s digital progress should not simply be how fast our networks can operate. It should also be how many Ghanaians can afford to participate in the digital economy.
From Desmond Frimpong
Esuofia
Dear Editor,
I wish to draw the attention of the relevant authorities to the poor state of the railway crossing area of the Neoplan Station, near Kwame Nkrumah Circle in Accra, which is increasingly disrupting the smooth flow of traffic.
The damaged section of the road has become a major inconvenience to motorists, as vehicles are forced to slow down considerably when approaching the crossing to avoid damaging their tyres, wheels and suspension systems.
This situation causes unnecessary delays, particularly during peak hours when traffic volumes are high.
The crossing is an important route for commuters and commercial drivers who use the Circle area to connect to other parts of the capital.
The deteriorating road surface therefore affects not only individual motorists but also the general movement of vehicles through this busy transport hub.
Beyond the inconvenience, the situation could increase the risk of minor accidents as drivers brake suddenly or attempt to manoeuvre around damaged portions of the road.
I respectfully appeal to the Department of Urban Roads, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly and other relevant agencies to inspect the affected section and undertake urgent repairs to restore the smooth movement of traffic.
Timely intervention will reduce delays, improve road safety and make commuting through the Circle area more convenient.
Yours faithfully,
Concerned Citizen
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Dear Editor,
I wish to draw the attention of the authorities and the general public to the increasing cost of hostel accommodation, particularly for students in tertiary institutions.
The high cost of hostels has become a serious challenge for many students and their parents.
In some areas, hostel fees have increased significantly, making it difficult for students from low- and middle-income families to secure decent accommodation.
Apart from the hostel fees, students also have to pay for transportation, food, learning materials and other academic needs.
The rising cost of accommodation therefore puts additional financial pressure on families and, in some cases, forces students to live in overcrowded or poorly maintained facilities.
I believe hostel owners and relevant authorities must work together to ensure that accommodation remains affordable while maintaining acceptable standards.
Tertiary institutions should also consider expanding student accommodation and encouraging affordable private hostel projects.
The government and local authorities could further support the development of low-cost student accommodation through appropriate policies and incentives.
I therefore appeal to the Ministry of Education, tertiary institutions and other stakeholders to treat the issue as a matter of urgency.
Affordable and decent accommodation is essential to creating a conducive environment for students to study and succeed.
This has in a way also empowered the private people in the accommodation sector to take undue advantage of the situation to charge exorbitant rates for their services.
Kwame Ampiaw,
Accra
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