MTN Ghana Secures $109.9 Million 5G Spectrum as Ericsson and NCA Strengthen Digital Infrastructure Partnerships

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has taken a significant step toward the nationwide deployment of 5G technology by assigning critical spectrum bands to mobile network operators. Scancom Plc, operating as MTN Ghana, emerged as the successful applicant for the 700 MHz band, securing two of the three available lots for a total license fee of US$109.9 million. This allocation is part of a broader regulatory process involving the 700 MHz, 2.3 GHz, and 3 GHz bands intended to enhance mobile broadband across the country. While the 2.3 GHz band was under-subscribed despite four applications, the 3 GHz band saw high demand with applications exceeding available lots, signaling intense competition for high-capacity 5G resources.

Parallel to these regulatory milestones, global telecommunications giant Ericsson is commemorating 30 years of operations in Ghana and its 150th anniversary worldwide. Since launching the nation's first commercial GSM network in 1996, Ericsson has been a pivotal partner in Ghana’s digital evolution, facilitating the introduction of 3G and 4G technologies. Majda Lahlou Kassi, Vice President of Ericsson West and Southern Africa, highlighted the company's commitment to driving future digital transformation through 5G, cloud automation, and mobile financial services. These initiatives are designed to align with Ghana Vision 2057, aiming to establish the country as a regional digital leader through advanced connectivity and artificial intelligence.

To further bolster the regulatory environment for these emerging technologies, the NCA recently hosted a high-level delegation from the U.S. Department of Commerce. Discussions led by U.S. representatives Lauren Molina and Theodore Ruth focused on advancements in Ghana’s communications sector and priorities for AI regulation. This international collaboration, combined with the major spectrum acquisitions by MTN and the long-term infrastructure commitments from Ericsson, underscores a coordinated effort between the government, global tech partners, and private operators to modernize Ghana’s digital landscape and prepare for the next generation of mobile services.