The Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) has intensified efforts to identify and address connectivity gaps in unserved and underserved communities, following a monitoring exercise across key digital infrastructure sites in the Eastern Region. The exercise was led by the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, accompanied by the Administrator (CEO) of GIFEC, Mr. Tanko Rashid-Computer, the Eastern Regional Minister, Hon. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, alongside officials of the National Communications Authority (NCA), the Ministry and the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council..

The team inspected the Dumpong, Obosono and Nsakye Rural Telephony Project (RTP) sites, the Koforidua Regional Innovation Centre (RIC), and the Odumase and Somanya Community ICT Centres (CICs).

The exercise identified key connectivity bottlenecks requiring coordinated interventions to improve rural telephony and accelerate national coverage.

At the Koforidua RIC, a flagship centre supporting the One Million Coders Programme (OMCP), it was disclosed that approximately 140,000 people have enrolled nationwide. Ghanaians are encouraged to register free of charge using their Ghana Card via www.onemillioncoders.gov.gh .

The exercise reinforces GIFEC’s mandate to bridge the digital divide by expanding electronic communications infrastructure and extending reliable connectivity and digital opportunities to unserved and underserved communities across Ghana.

Key Discussion Points

• Bridging Connectivity Gaps: GIFEC is identifying and addressing connectivity challenges in unserved and underserved communities.
• Rural Telephony Expansion: – The Dumpong, Obosono, and Nsakye Rural Telephony Project sites were inspected to assess infrastructure and improve network coverage.
• Digital Skills Development: The Koforidua Regional Innovation Centre supports the One Million Coders Programme, which has recorded about 140,000 enrolments nationwide.
• Community ICT Centres: – The Odumase and Somanya Community ICT Centres were assessed as part of efforts to expand access to digital services and opportunities..
• Strengthening National Digital Inclusion: – The monitoring exercise highlights the need for coordinated interventions among GIFEC, NCA, the Ministry, and regional authorities to accelerate nationwide digital connectivity.