If you’re visiting Ghana and wondering how to stay connected, you’ve come to the right place!

Whether you want to make calls, browse the internet, or use social media, having a good understanding of Ghana’s mobile networks will save you time, money, and frustration. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right SIM card to understanding coverage and costs.

Understanding Ghana’s Mobile Network System

Ghana uses a GSM network, meaning if you have a factory-unlocked phone, you can easily swap your SIM card for a local one. This is much cheaper than using international roaming. To make a call within Ghana, you’ll need to use the local 10-digit phone number format, which always starts with a zero (0). If calling from abroad, use Ghana’s country code (+233) and drop the first zero.

For example:

• Local Call: 024 111 4567
• International Call: +233 24 111 4567

Major Mobile Network Operators in Ghana

There are three main mobile network providers in Ghana:

Network	Prefixes	Best For
MTN Ghana	(024), (054), (055), (059)	Widest coverage, fast 4G LTE, mobile money (MoMo) services
Telecel Ghana	(020), (050)	Affordable data bundles, good urban coverage
AirtelTigo	(027), (057), (026), (056)	Budget-friendly options, decent network in cities

Each network has its strengths, so choosing one depends on your needs.

1. MTN Ghana

MTN is Ghana’s largest and most reliable network. It has the best nationwide coverage, making it the ideal choice if you plan to travel outside major cities. MTN also has the fastest 4G LTE network, making it great for streaming, video calls, and browsing.

Pros:

• Best network coverage across Ghana
• Fast internet speeds with 4G LTE
• Mobile Money (MoMo) is widely used for payments
• Reliable customer service

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive data bundles
• Can be congested in busy areas

2. Telecel Ghana

Telecel Ghana, formerly Vodafone, offers some of the cheapest data bundles in Ghana. If you’re mostly staying in urban areas like Accra, Kumasi, or Takoradi, this is a great option. However, coverage in remote areas is not as strong as MTN.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly data plans
• Good coverage in major cities
• Reliable for business and home internet

Cons:

• Weaker network coverage in rural areas
• Customer service can be slow

3. AirtelTigo

AirtelTigo is a merger of two former networks, Airtel and Tigo. It offers affordable call and data packages, making it a good choice if you’re looking to save money. While it works well in cities, rural coverage can be spotty.

Pros:

• Competitive call and data rates
• Decent network in major towns
• AirtelTigo Money for transactions

Cons:

• Limited rural coverage
• Internet speed is not as fast as MTN’s

Getting a SIM Card in Ghana

Getting a SIM card in Ghana is simple, but you’ll need to register it with a valid form of identification, such as a passport. Here’s what to do:

1. Visit an official store or an authorized vendor.
2. Carry your passport or a Ghana-issued ID.
3. Fill out a registration form and provide biometric data (fingerprint and photo).
4. Once registered, insert your SIM card, top up credit, and start using your phone.

Where to Buy Airtime and Data Bundles

You can buy airtime and data in three main ways:

• Scratch Cards: Available at kiosks and convenience stores.
• Mobile Money (MoMo): Buy credit directly from your mobile money account.
• USSD Codes: Each network has a short code to buy and check balance:
  • MTN: *124# (balance), *138# (data bundles)
  • Telecel Ghana: *124# (balance), *700# (data bundles)
  • AirtelTigo: *124# (balance), *111# (data bundles)

Internet Speed and Connectivity

If you’re staying in Ghana for work, business, or extended travel, internet speed is something you’ll care about. Here’s a quick comparison:

Network	4G Availability	Average Speed (Mbps)
MTN Ghana	Yes	15-30 Mbps
Telecel Ghana	Yes (Urban)	10-20 Mbps
AirtelTigo	Limited	5-15 Mbps

Staying Connected in Rural Areas

If you’re heading outside the main cities, keep these in mind:

• MTN has the best rural coverage, but even it has dead zones in remote places.
• Carry a power bank or solar charger because electricity may not be reliable.
• Check network availability before heading to remote areas.

Emergency Contacts in Ghana

If you ever need help, here are Ghana’s emergency numbers:

Service	Number
General Emergency	112
Police	191, 112
Fire Service	192, 112
Ambulance	193, 112

Final Tips for Using Mobile Networks in Ghana

• Use mobile money (MoMo) to buy airtime and data more conveniently.
• Always carry small cash because some kiosks don’t accept digital payments.
• Know your network’s shortcodes for balance checks and bundles.
• Stick to major networks (MTN, Telecel Ghana, AirtelTigo) for better service.

With this guide, you’re now ready to navigate Ghana’s mobile networks like a pro! Whether you’re making calls, using mobile money, or browsing the internet, you’ll stay connected wherever you go. Safe travels!

FAQs

How do I recover my Telecel number incase I forget?

To find or check your Telecel number, simply dial *127# on you Telecel line and your number will be displayed on your screen. This USSD code provides instant access to your phone number.

Can I call restaurants in Ghana to book a table?

Yes, you can simply look up the phone number of any Ghanaian restaurant on Google and call to book a reservation.