The Hola Browser, a 100% free peer-to-peer virtual private network (VPN) built-in, was officially launched in Ghana this week. Hola promises internet users in the country the freedom to explore the online world, unlimited, for free.
Hola is accessible across a wide range of platforms and devices, allowing over 259 million registered users to access almost any website and enjoy their favourite movies, TV shows, games, and more; from over 190 countries.
“We believe in fully democratised access to the internet and all the content available on it,” says Avi Raz Cohen, General Manager at Hola. “That’s as true for Ghanaians – whether they’re accessing international content or continent from home when they’re abroad – as it is for anyone else around the world. As such, we look forward to growing our presence in Ghana and building our user base in one of Africa’s most exciting and innovative digital markets.”
Already home to a vibrant technology and startup sector, Ghana’s online population is poised to grow significantly shortly. Currently, at 53%, internet penetration in Ghana is expected to rise to more than 66% by 2026. According to Statista, average download speeds in Ghana increased from 2.3Mbps in 2017 to 11.24Mbps in 2022.
“Given the potential freedom available to both new and existing Ghanaian internet users thanks to those increased speeds, they must be able to make the most of it,” says Raz Cohen. “That means giving them access to as much of the internet as possible, regardless of where they may be. The internet always brings people together. But can do that much better if it’s open and free to all.”
As well as its ground-breaking browser, Hola is also available in Freemium form as a browser extension for all major browsers, as a Windows and MacOS app, and as an app on Android and iOS, consoles, and a broad selection of intelligent devices, including smart TVs.