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Exploring the potential of wireless technologies to accelerate universal Internet access in Ghana

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  • Fosu, Ignatius

Abstract

Ghana was one of the first countries in sub-Saharan Africa to be connected to the Internet, yet has very low Internet usage (5.3 users per 100 inhabitants). A qualitative study including in-depth interviews with ISPs explored Internet diffusion in Ghana. Findings suggest that due to Ghana's inefficient and outdated fixed-line infrastructure, universal Internet access goals might not be achievable through fixed-line technologies. Rather, wireless technologies may be more efficient. However, high access costs continue to be a barrier. Policy options to encourage widespread deployment of wireless broadband and cost reduction are presented as suggestions for further research. These include using universal service funds to expand the national backbone with an open access high capacity wireless backbone to reach unserved and underserved areas, reducing license and regulatory fees for the wireless industry to encourage coverage and capacity expansion, and mandatory infrastructure sharing to reduce cost.

Suggested Citation

  • Fosu, Ignatius, 2011. "Exploring the potential of wireless technologies to accelerate universal Internet access in Ghana," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 35(6), pages 494-504, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:telpol:v:35:y:2011:i:6:p:494-504
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    Cited by:

    1. Yamakawa, Peter & Cadillo, Gloria & Tornero, Rubén, 2012. "Critical factors for the expansion of broadband in developing countries: The case of Peru," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 36(7), pages 560-570.
    2. Loo, Becky P.Y. & Ngan, Y.L., 2012. "Developing mobile telecommunications to narrow digital divide in developing countries? Some lessons from China," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 36(10), pages 888-900.
    3. Jain, Rekha, 2014. "The Indian broadband plan: A review and implications for theory," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 38(3), pages 278-290.
    4. Loo, Becky P.Y. & Wang, Bo, 2017. "Progress of e-development in China since 1998," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 41(9), pages 731-742.
    5. Robert Wentrup & H. Richard Nakamura & Patrik Ström, 2020. "Closing the Digital Entrepreneurship Gap the Case of Returnee Entrepreneurs in Morocco," Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Emerging Economies, Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India, vol. 6(1), pages 140-162, January.

    More about this item

    Keywords

    Wireless Internet ICT4AD Universal access SAT-3 Ghana;

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