Ghana’s National Communications Authority (NCA) has concluded the assignment of spectrum in the 700 MHz band, with Scancom Plc (MTN Ghana) emerging as the sole successful applicant in a deal valued at US$100.9 million.
The transaction marks a major milestone in the regulator’s ongoing 5G spectrum licensing process, which covers the 700 MHz, 2.3 GHz, and 3 GHz bands intended for the provision of mobile broadband services across the country.
In a statement issued on Friday following the public opening and ranking of Best Price Offers submitted by qualified applicants at the NCA Tower, the regulator confirmed that MTN Ghana secured two lots in the 700 MHz band, which represents the maximum number permitted for a single entity.
“The process for the 700 MHz band has been concluded, with Scancom Plc (MTN Ghana), the sole qualified applicant for the band, emerging as the successful applicant. Scancom Plc applied for two lots, which is the maximum number that may be awarded to a single applicant under the RFA. The two lots yielded a total Licence Fee of US$100.9 million,” the NCA stated.
While the 700 MHz assignment has reached completion, the licensing outcomes for the remaining spectrum bands remain pending as application figures revealed contrasting levels of demand among industry operators.
The 2.3 GHz band recorded under-subscription, with four out of five available lots applied for by Ghana Telecommunications Company Limited (Telecel Ghana) and Goal Telecommunications Ltd. Conversely, the 3 GHz band attracted over-subscription, drawing applications for four lots against three available spaces from both Scancom Plc and Telecel Ghana.
Addressing the next phases of the allocation process, the regulator assured that administrative procedures for the remaining frequencies will follow established guidelines before final assignments are declared.
“For the 2.3 GHz band, four of the five available lots have been applied for. The band is therefore under-subscribed, and the next stage of the process will proceed in accordance with the RFA. For the 3 GHz band, four lots have been applied for against the three available. Demand therefore exceeds the available spectrum, and the next stage of the process will proceed in accordance with the RFA,” the statement added.
The Authority noted that final outcomes for the 2.3 GHz and 3 GHz bands will be announced once all remaining licensing requirements are fulfilled, with successful applicants expected to be notified individually.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
