Ghana's leading mobile network operators, MTN Ghana and Telecel Ghana, are preparing to compete for 5G spectrum licences. The government has ended the exclusive rights previously given to a state-supported wholesale infrastructure provider.
This policy change is expected to lead to a competitive rollout of fifth-generation mobile technology. An auction for these licences will likely begin in the coming weeks. This move will allow licensed telecommunications operators to compete directly for spectrum rights.
This development is part of Ghana's larger economic strategy to boost its digital infrastructure. It aligns with efforts to expand digital services and support innovation across key sectors. These sectors include education, healthcare, and finance. The shift from an exclusive model to a competitive one marks a significant policy change. It will reshape Ghana's telecommunications landscape.
Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, confirmed his company's intent to participate. Group Chief Executive Officer of Telecel Group, Moh Damush, also stated their company will bid. These confirmations were reported by Bloomberg. The government withdrew the exclusive concession awarded to Next Gen Infraco (NGIC). NGIC was created to deploy and operate the country's shared 5G infrastructure. This exclusivity was initially set to last until 2034.
The previous framework gave NGIC sole responsibility for 5G network deployment. Mobile network operators were to buy capacity from NGIC. They could not build their own 5G networks. The government has now decided to liberalise the market. This decision allows operators more flexibility for investing in new digital infrastructure. It also aims to accelerate digital transformation and expand high-speed internet across the country.
The earlier arrangement had attracted international scrutiny. Radisys Corporation, a technology company owned by Reliance Industries Limited, was selected. It was to provide the core network infrastructure for the wholesale 5G platform. The revised approach will heighten competition within Ghana's telecom sector. It will also give operators greater freedom to invest.
The planned 5G auction supports the government's aim of expanding digital services. It also seeks to improve broadband connectivity and support innovation. These efforts will benefit sectors like manufacturing and agriculture. More licensed 5G operators could speed up network deployment. It could also improve service quality and encourage investment in digital technologies. This creates opportunities for businesses and consumers through faster internet speeds and better connectivity.
MTN Ghana is the country's largest mobile network operator by subscribers. Telecel Ghana recently acquired Vodafone Ghana's operations. Both companies are expected to be strong contenders in the auction. This is due to their existing nationwide infrastructure and investment capacity.