Wireless Ghana: A Case Study

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6 like the center will serve the surrounding communities. Local libraries will rapidly become a hub of free, open access to information. Wireless communication infrastructure promises robust job creation as businesses take advantage of lower barriers to market entry and the advantages of highspeed, low-cost communications 2 . A medium for communication and an available stream of information are two of the most empowering assets that a community can implement. The Wireless Ghana project is beginning to bring forth these achievable assets in its surrounding, rural communities. 1.5 Time and Scope - Major Project Phases The project was initiated in early 2005. The first phase of the project is completed with ten nodes in the Akwapim Community Wireless Network providing ten points of connectivity to the Akwapim North district of Ghana. To serve a wider area, phase II of the project, will be executed between September 2006 and September 2007 and will specifically address: • Strengthening of the network infrastructure with a backbone of high-power, low-fault "central" nodes and a cost-priced VSAT solution; • Expanding the network from 10 to 20 nodes by providing new access points to 5 secondary schools; • Adding and maintaining nodes for small businesses, organizations, community groups and churches that can purchase their own equipment; • Bridging current volunteers to part-time employees to achieve a stable workforce, well maintained and sustainable network; • Hosting a conference on Community Wireless Networks in Ghana to address the applications of wireless networking technology through parts of rural Ghana. In Phase III of the project, from September 2007 through 2008, the Wireless Ghana team will assist in the implementation of community wireless networks throughout the various regions in Ghana, particularly those with a CBLit presence. (CBLit’s next centers will be in the Ashanti and Western regions). The pilot project, the Akwapim Community Wireless Network, will serve as a model in the implementation of these networks. 1.6 Sponsors 2 Meinrath, Sascha. "Social Benefits of Community Wireless Networks." Free Press. Editor, Robert W. McChesney. Online. Internet. Thu, May 11, 2006. .
7 The initial phase of the project has involved grass-roots development efforts with various local and international partners. Wireless Ghana has been assisted with funding, software-support, and know-how. Phase I support has been given by: • Community Based Libraries and Information Technology • The Apirede Community Resource Center • Peace Corps Ghana • Champaign-Urbana Community Wireless Network • MyGhanaOnline.com • Ghana Educational Services • Akwapim North District Council • TakingITGlobal • The Information for Development Program • Student World Assembly Additionally, there are a number of individual donors who helped initially fund and advise the project, as well as the schools and community organizations that have built network nodes throughout phase I.
Page 2 and 3: 2 What follows is an in-depth case
Page 4 and 5: 4 1. Introduction 1.1 General Detai
Page 8 and 9: 8 2. Public Private Partnership Mod
Page 10 and 11: 10 Ministers and Member of Parliame
Page 12 and 13: 12 3. Project Financing Approach Th
Page 14 and 15: 14 4. Project Technology 4.1 Templa
Page 16 and 17: 16 4.2 Technical Problems The main
Page 18 and 19: 18 5.2 Social Benefits The social t
Page 20 and 21: 20 TABLE 5.4.1 Tactics for Inclusio
Page 22 and 23: 22 has been the effort of the local
Page 24 and 25: The Wireless Ghana project meets th
Page 26 and 27: 26 workforce, and infrastructure im
Page 28 and 29: 28 8. Lessons Learned The lessons b
Page 30 and 31: 30 infrastructure could use an upgr
Page 32 and 33: 32 Appendix A - Equipment Proposal
Page 34 and 35: 34 Appendix C - Phase II Budget PHA

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