We Are Ready to Fix Rural Network Challenges to Help Curb Social Vices – GIFEC CEO, Tanko “Computer”

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), Mr. Rashid Sofo-Tanko—popularly known as “Computer”—has reaffirmed the agency’s determination to resolve long-standing mobile network challenges in rural communities.

Speaking on Zaa TV’s Dasiba Tamale show, Mr. Sofo-Tanko described poor mobile connectivity as a growing national security concern, notinoolloooloollllooloog that the situation has emboldened criminals who exploit communication blackspots to attack travellers and traders.

“The poor mobile network connectivity in rural communities is a major concern for us. During the 2024 campaign period, I personally experienced it. You can go to some communities and be unable to make even a simple phone call, and this has serious implications,” he said.

According to him, criminals strategically monitor such poorly connected zones to block roads and rob unsuspecting road users of their goods and money. “At that point, you can’t even call for help,” he stressed.

Mr. Sofo-Tanko revealed that GIFEC is collaborating with national security agencies to tackle these communication challenges and enhance connectivity across rural Ghana. He said the move forms part of a broader push to support government’s digital transformation agenda.

He also accused the previous NPP administration of neglecting ICT centres constructed under earlier NDC-led governments. These Community Information Centres, he noted, were established mainly at post offices to expand digital access but reportedly fell into disuse.

“During the NDC era, we built Community Information Centres across the country. But upon assuming office, the NPP abandoned them. We had plans to procure computers for these centres, but instead, they brought in substandard ‘carton’ computers that were not fit for purpose,” he alleged.

The GIFEC CEO further disclosed that the agency has so far connected more than 300 communities to reliable satellite networks under the current administration, adding that plans are underway to extend coverage to all remaining unserved areas.

Source: Tarimbia Sulemana Alhassan