Glo Mobile launch in Ghana imminent

Hints have floated in the Ghanaian media several times and each time, the dates have been moved forward. Despite acquiring a license to operate a mobile telecommunication network in Ghana since May 2008, going live to the general public has been a struggle on several fronts, for Glo Mobile Ghana Ltd. However, I am inclined to believe Glo Mobile Ghana would go live in a few weeks, for 3 reasons:

Glo-1 submarine cable launched

The most credible hint to an imminent network roll-out came on 8th April 2011, when Glo Mobile’s submarine cable (Glo-1) was launched in Ghana. The cable would power Glo Mobile’s internet services.

Detected cellular signals

Though a specific date has not been announced, a scan on my smartphone reveals two signals from a cellular network that could only be Glo Mobile Ghana. The network ID is 620-7, in parallel 2G and 3G networks.

A screenshot of 2G/3G signals believed to be that of Glo Mobile Ghana
A screenshot of 2G/3G signals believed to be that of Glo Mobile Ghana

Like Airtel (then Zain), Glo Mobile would launch in Ghana using one of the recent mobile broadband technologies: 3.5G, enabling the new network for  mobile broadband and video calling.

Glo World outlets

Though Glo Mobile secured several office spaces across Accra (and other cities/towns, I assume), the spaces were left empty and dusty for months.

A signpost to a Glo World outlet in Accra
A signpost to a Glo World outlet in Accra

Glo World outlets meant for sales and customer service that I have noticed across Accra are now being fitted with office equipment – another indication of a very imminent commercial launch.

Glo Mobile is expected to offer one of the best and most affordable mobile broadband in Ghana since they have unfettered access to their own Glo-1 submarine cable. Glo Mobile Ghana is expected to launch in the 3rd quarter of 2011.

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Oluniyi D. Ajao
Oluniyi D. Ajao is an Internet Entrepreneur and Tech Enthusiast based in South Africa. Follow him on twitter @niyyie for more tech updates.

21 Comments

  1. I heard they intend to launch as close to July 1st as possible, so they can benefit from the Mobile Number Portability advantage, if there will be any at all.

  2. I am a young graduate and would be very happy to work with the GLO Telecommunication in Ghana. I just like the network and wants yhem to come soon.

  3. I wonder why Glo cannot come out for an official launch Ghana is in a need of you i cant wait to switch to your network,Ghanians are waiting for you badly…….

  4. I don’t wamma wait in vain for glo. I’ve heard about their wonderful exploits in Nigeria and around the world and can’t wait for the official launch in Ghana. I heard the official launch is on July 31. Glo!! pls tell us something. As for my internet modem, I would wait for the SPEED and AFFORDABILITY!!!

  5. Glo you welcome if only you will not disapoint us we’re ready.
    I think you have to start selling your product now thanks

  6. i am so excited when i heard that glo is coming to Ghana.but
    now it seems that there is no hope. If gio ghana is assleep, they should
    try as much to buck up thank you.

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