The Ministry
of Communications and Digitalization together with the World Bank have made
strides in enhancing connectivity across Ghana through the eTransform project. This
initiative has not only revolutionized digital infrastructure in the country,
but also pave the way for universal access to high-speed internet and modern
communication tools.
The
eTransform project, launched in 2015 and restructured in 2018, aims to create
an enabling environment for digital Ghana, focusing on e-government, business,
and innovation. The project has made significant progress, extending backbone
connectivity to 254 district centers, up from 69 initially. This includes
critical systems like GIFMIS and TRIPS.
The project's
most ambitious aspect, last mile connectivity, aims to connect over 2,000
government institutions nationwide. To date, 951 government institutions have
been connected with a minimum of 1Gig capacity on a 10-year indefeasible rights
of use (IRU) basis. All sites have been connected, validated, and passed final
acceptance by NITA.
The Minister
of Communications and Digitalization, Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, reiterated the
project's transformative potential, stating, "The eTransform Project is a game-changer for Ghana, driving economic
growth, social inclusion, and access to information and services. This project
demonstrates our commitment to building a digital economy that benefits all
Ghanaians."
The
eTransform project, aligned with global efforts to promote digital inclusion,
is set to close on June 30, 2024.
By:
Nana Appiah Acquaye