MTN Ghana is set to deploy its newly acquired 5G spectrum, valued at US$202 million, alongside its existing spectrum holdings as the telecom operator moves to increase network capacity and enhance service quality nationwide. The additional spectrum is expected to help meet rising demand for high-speed connectivity while accelerating the rollout of 5G mobile services and home broadband connectivity.
The development follows notification from the National Communications Authority (NCA) that MTN Ghana has been awarded spectrum in the 700 MHz and 3 GHz bands for 5G and mobile broadband services. The licences will be valid for 15 years, with MTN Ghana allocated two 20 MHz lots in the 700 MHz band and 150 MHz in the 3 GHz band.
MTN Ghana will pay a total of US$202 million for the spectrum, comprising US$100.9 million for the 700 MHz allocation and US$101.1 million for the 3 GHz allocation. The company said it is currently completing the formalities and payment obligations related to the licence acquisition. It added that the spectrum payments have already been factored into its equity free cash flow outlook.
Boosting network capacity
MTN Ghana announced that the new spectrum will enhance its current spectrum inventory and provide extra capacity to meet the growing demand for data and high-speed connectivity. The operator anticipates that this investment will boost network performance, improve service quality, and enhance the overall customer experience throughout the country. “Following the issuance of the spectrum licenses, the company will deploy the 5G spectrum alongside its existing spectrum to strengthen network capacity, enhance service quality, and improve customer experiences across Ghana,” stated the company in a press release.
Supporting 5G and home connectivity
MTN Ghana has announced that the additional spectrum will be essential for accelerating the growth of 5G mobility and advancing its plans for home connectivity. This expanded capacity will enable the company to support more high-speed connections and manage the increasing data traffic from households and businesses.
This investment signifies a substantial expansion of MTN Ghana’s spectrum resources and enhances its ability to scale 5G services as demand for faster and more reliable connectivity continues to grow. MTN Ghana has stated that it will keep the market updated on key developments as it completes the licensing process and moves forward with the deployment of the newly awarded spectrum and high-speed 5G services.
