Project Overview

Bruben Community Network is a groundbreaking initiative extending internet connectivity to Bruben and surrounding remote communities in the Afram Plains of Ghana. This network seeks to bridge the digital divide by deploying inclusive, sustainable, and locally managed technology solutions that meet the real needs of rural communities. Through this initiative, we are not just providing internet access, we are enabling education, entrepreneurship, healthcare access, and civic participation in communities that have historically been left behind.

Project Objectives

The project broadly seeks to extend connectivity to Bruben and its adjoining communities. Specifically, the project will achieve the following:

1. Provide Internet Connectivity
2. Provide Virtual Learning System
3. Provide digital literacy skills.

Expected Outcomes

The project is expected to have long-lasting benefits for the community. The specific outcomes to be achieved are as follows:

1. Internet use by public establishments like schools, clinics and households increased.
2. Digital Skills improved.
3. Local digital economy developed.
4. Learning outcomes improved
5. Livelihood opportunities increased.

Community Profile

Bruben, a vibrant and resilient rural community in Ghana's Eastern Region, lies at the heart of the Afram Plains Island, a remote enclave surrounded by the vast waters of the Volta Lake. Accessible only by canoe or ferry, Bruben and its 15 neighbouring villages are home to more than 27,400 people, most of whom rely on farming, fishing, and small-scale trading for their livelihoods.

Despite being geographically isolated, the communities are rich in social capital and local ingenuity. They boast active schools, basic health clinics, bustling local markets, and a strong sense of communal identity. However, the absence of reliable internet connectivity continues to hold them back, limiting access to modern education tools, mobile banking, telemedicine, agricultural extension services, and opportunities for youth and women entrepreneurs.

The Bruben Community Network project was created in response to these realities, to ensure that physical remoteness no longer translates into digital exclusion. It seeks to connect not only devices, but also people to knowledge, services, and one another by building a resilient, community-owned network that reflects the aspirations and strengths of Bruben's people.

Why connectivity matters

For Bruben and its neighboring communities, connectivity is more than just access to the internet, it is a lifeline to opportunity, dignity, and development. In this remote island region, physical barriers already limit access to essential services.

In a context where geographic isolation already imposes constraints, digital exclusion deepens inequalities. That's why the Bruben Community Network is not just a technical solution, it is a catalyst for equity, inclusion, and community-led development.

Community leadership engagement

The Step Network team, led by Victor Asante, met with the leadership of the Bruben community to outline the benefits of the Bruben Community Network. He highlighted how the initiative will enhance educational opportunities, support local businesses to boost economic growth and improve community infrastructure. Additionally, the project will introduce health and wellness programs and foster greater community engagement through various outreach activities. Victor emphasized that these efforts aim to bring sustainable, positive changes, significantly improving the quality of life for all community members.

How the network works

We have installed a robust wireless internet system tailored to Bruben's unique geography and needs. Here's a breakdown of the network:

Digital Mapping

• Satellite maps and GPS-based coordinates using Google Earth.
• Network topology designed with Microsoft Visio.

Physical Infrastructure

Starlink Gen2 Satellite Dish: Mounted on a 35m tower at Bruben Clinic.

Firewall & Server: Armortec 1U units managing access and hosting content.

Power Backup: Litewave 3000VA UPS for 2 hours of uninterrupted service.

Wireless Relays: Spread across key points in Bruben (e.g., Main Township, DSTv Center, Pentecost Church) with omnidirectional antennas covering large areas.

Software Systems

Our Impact so far

Since its launch, the Bruben Community Network has made a transformative difference in the lives of residents across Bruben and neighbouring villages. What began as a bold vision to connect the unconnected is now a functioning, community-powered digital lifeline.

Our partners

The Bruben Community Network is made possible through the generous support and collaboration of visionary partners committed to digital inclusion and community empowerment.

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