The National Communications Authority has initiated steps to remove the exclusivity clause attached to the fifth-generation mobile network licence held by Next-Gen Infraco, a move regulators say will open Ghana’s telecommunications sector to greater competition and innovation.
In a press release issued in Accra, the Authority confirmed that it has formally served a Notice of Proposed Licence Amendment to Next Gen Infraco pursuant to Section 14 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).
“The proposed amendment will remove the 5G exclusivity clause contained in NGIC’s licence. The Authority considers this action to be in the public interest, with the objective of: Promoting competition and innovation in the provision of 5G services”.
National Communications Authority
Regulators believe that opening the market to additional players will stimulate innovation, improve service quality, and expand the range of digital services available to consumers.
Digital Transformation and Spectrum Efficiency
The communications regulator emphasised that the proposed amendment is part of a wider strategy to accelerate Ghana’s digital transformation agenda. Officials indicated that the removal of exclusivity will encourage broader industry participation in the rollout of next generation mobile technology.
The Authority explained that the measure is expected to enhance consumer choice and improve the overall quality of telecommunications services across the country.
By allowing multiple service providers to participate in the 5G ecosystem, regulators anticipate stronger competition that could lead to faster network expansion and improved digital connectivity.
Another key objective of the amendment is to ensure the optimal use of spectrum resources. The NCA described spectrum as a national asset that must be managed efficiently to maximise economic and technological benefits.
Allowing more operators to participate in 5G deployment, according to the Authority, will help achieve more effective utilisation of this critical resource.
Legal Framework and Notice Period
The regulatory action taken by the National Communications Authority follows the procedures outlined in Section 14 of Act 775, which governs amendments to communications licences in Ghana.
Under the law, the proposed amendment will take effect ninety days from the date the notice was issued unless the regulator determines otherwise after reviewing any representations submitted by the licensee within the statutory period.
The Authority emphasised that the process is being conducted in accordance with established legal and regulatory frameworks. Officials stated that the notice gives Next Gen Infraco the opportunity to present its views before a final determination is made.
In its statement, the NCA reassured the public that the proposed amendment reflects its mandate to regulate the communications sector in a manner that protects the national interest. The Authority noted that transparency and adherence to due process remain central to its regulatory approach.
Expansion of 5G Infrastructure
The announcement comes as Next Gen Infraco continues to expand its early stage 5G infrastructure across Ghana. According to data released by the regulator, the company has installed forty nine operational 5G sites across several regions of the country.
The majority of these installations are located in Greater Accra Region, where forty three sites have been deployed. Additional installations have been recorded in the Ashanti Region, Western Region, Northern Region, Bono Region, and Central Region, each hosting a smaller number of sites as part of the company’s initial rollout strategy.
The deployment of these sites marks an early phase in Ghana’s adoption of fifth generation mobile technology. Industry analysts note that wider participation by multiple operators could significantly accelerate nationwide coverage and broaden the availability of high speed digital services.
Licence Fee Payment Default
Alongside the proposed amendment, the NCA also disclosed that Next Gen Infraco is currently in default on a licence fee instalment payment. The obligation forms part of the schedule of licence fee payments stipulated under the company’s licence conditions.
The National Communication Authority indicated that the matter is being addressed in accordance with the applicable regulatory provisions and licence requirements.
While details of the outstanding amount were not disclosed, the NCA noted that compliance with financial obligations remains an important component of the licensing framework governing communications operators.
Regulators emphasised that all licensees are expected to meet both operational and financial requirements stipulated under Ghana’s telecommunications laws and regulatory guidelines.
Commitment to Transparent Regulation
The NCA reiterated its commitment to maintaining a regulatory environment that promotes transparency, fairness, and predictability within Ghana’s communications industry. Officials noted that such an environment is essential to attracting long term investment and sustaining growth in the digital economy.
The Authority also highlighted its broader responsibility to ensure that communications services are developed in a manner that benefits the national economy and supports inclusive digital development.
Established under the National Communications Authority Act, 2008 (Act 769), the NCA serves as the statutory body responsible for licensing and regulating electronic communications activities in Ghana.
Its mandate includes overseeing telecommunications operators, managing spectrum resources, and ensuring that the sector evolves in line with national development priorities.
The proposed removal of 5G exclusivity therefore represents a significant policy direction that could reshape the structure of Ghana’s next generation mobile network market.
As the statutory notice period unfolds, stakeholders across the telecommunications sector will be watching closely to see how the regulatory review ultimately influences the future of 5G deployment in the country.
