GIFEC CEO Calls for Immediate Use of Procured Tech, Criticizes Outdated Rural Telephony Projects
In a candid interview on 3FM, Dr. Sofo Ibrahim Tanko, CEO of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), expressed strong disapproval of keeping procured technology items locked away in warehouses instead of deploying them for public use. He also raised concerns over stalled rural telephony projects and the use of outdated 2G technology in an era where the world is advancing toward a 5G and 6G networks
Dr. Tanko emphasized that procured telecommunications equipment should be deployed as soon as they arrive, rather than being left unused in storage facilities.
“I don’t subscribe to a situation where items are packed in warehouses. As soon as they are brought in, they should be sent to the user agencies,” he stated.
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He further hinted that former Communications Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful might not be pleased with his remarks, but maintained that GIFEC is now working to bring connectivity to rural communities.
Dr. Tanko further revealed that a 2016 contract with Chinese firm CNCI to build 2,016 rural telephony sites has only delivered 209 so far, many of which are non-functional.
“We went around and saw them. I have pictures. They are like white elephants standing there—no traffic, nothing working,” he lamented.
He criticized the reliance on obsolete 2G technology for rural connectivity, questioning why Ghana should settle for outdated systems when even China is moving toward 6G.
“I was in the UK long ago and had 6G on my phone—fantastic speed. Why should we think rural people don’t deserve better?” he argued.
Collaboration with Telcos to Improve Rural Connectivity
Addressing the challenge of telecom service access in remote areas, Dr. Tanko explained that GIFEC works closely with telcos (MTN, Telecel, and others) to extend coverage.
“When we provide infrastructure in rural communities, telcos leverage it by connecting to their main towers. Once traffic flows, they expand services to those areas,” he said.
He praised President John Dramani Mahama (a former Communications Minister) for his deep understanding of the sector and commitment to improving rural connectivity, particularly in cocoa-growing areas and the northern regions.
In a surprising shift, Dr. Tanko also commented on Ghana’s deteriorating road network, dismissing claims of massive road construction under the current administration.
“Which roads? The roads are terribly bad. Unless you have a strong vehicle, you’ll end up in a mechanic shop after a few trips,“ he said.
He suggested that the poor road conditions are driving more people to opt for flights instead.
Dr. Tanko’s remarks highlight the urgent need for:
- Immediate deployment of procured telecom equipment
- Upgrading rural telephony projects to modern standards (4G/5G)
- Stronger public-private partnerships to expand rural connectivity
With Ghana’s digital transformation at stake, GIFEC’s push for efficiency and innovation could be a game-changer, if stakeholders act swiftly.
What do you think? Should Ghana prioritize 5G over 2G for rural connectivity? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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