NCA Ghana: No 2-Year Gap for Spectrum Licences Pre-Application Briefing

• The National Communications Authority (NCA) held a Pre-Application Briefing for prospective applicants seeking spectrum licences in the 700 MHz, 2.3 GHz, and 3 GHz Mid Bands.
• The briefing was conducted in accordance with relevant laws, including the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775), and the National Communications Authority Act, 2008 (Act 769).
• Prospective applicants must meet rollout obligations and timelines stipulated in licence conditions to avoid delays or penalties.
• Successful deployment of 5G services nationwide will improve connectivity, enhance digital services, and increase economic opportunities for Ghanaians.

Rev. Ing. Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko emphasized that the Authority was making the spectrum available as early as possible to facilitate the timely deployment of 5G services across the country.

The National Communications Authority (NCA) held a crucial meeting with prospective applicants for spectrum licences in the 700 MHz, 2.3 GHz and 3 GHz Mid Bands at its headquarters. The Pre-Application Briefing was a key milestone in the Request for Applications (RFA) process, where stakeholders could engage with the Authority and clarify their understanding of the application procedure. The meeting provided an opportunity for participating stakeholders to discuss critical aspects of the RFA, including the Selection and Award Procedure, eligibility requirements, spectrum availability, coverage obligations, and considerations related to Significant Market Power (SMP). Rev. Ing. Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko, Director General of the NCA, emphasized the Authority's commitment to making the spectrum available as soon as possible to facilitate the timely deployment of 5G services across Ghana.

The Pre-Application Briefing was conducted in accordance with Sections 2(1) and 58(1) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775), and the National Communications Authority Act, 2008 (Act 769). These laws provide the regulatory framework for the NCA's licensing process, ensuring a transparent, fair, and competitive environment for applicants. The RFA for Spectrum Licences in the specified Mid Bands is part of Ghana's digital transformation agenda, aimed at expanding broadband connectivity nationwide. The Authority's commitment to this agenda is reflected in its efforts to make spectrum available as early as possible to support the deployment of 5G services.

The upcoming spectrum licence application deadline is a critical milestone for lawyers advising clients on telecommunications projects in Ghana. Prospective applicants must ensure they are prepared to meet the rollout obligations and timelines stipulated in the licence conditions to avoid any potential delays or penalties. The successful deployment of 5G services nationwide will have far-reaching benefits, including improved connectivity, enhanced digital services, and increased economic opportunities for Ghanaians. As the NCA continues to facilitate the expansion of broadband connectivity, stakeholders must remain vigilant and adapt to changing regulatory requirements to stay ahead in the competitive telecommunications landscape.

Lawyers advising clients on telecommunications projects in Ghana should watch for the upcoming spectrum licence application deadline and ensure their clients are prepared to meet the rollout obligations and timelines stipulated in the licence conditions.

Source: Original reporting via NCA Ghana