The National Communications Authority (NCA) has cleared three applicants — MTN, Telecel and Next-Gen Telecoms — to proceed to the next stage of Ghana’s 5G spectrum licensing process after successfully completing the qualification phase. The qualification exercise formed part of the Request for Applications for spectrum licences in the 700 MHz, 2.3 GHz and 3 GHz bands. In a press release issued on September 9, the NCA said it received four applications before the 5 p.m. deadline on August 27, 2026.
The assessment involved an Eligibility Review and a Technical Qualification Assessment under Envelope A, which covered the technical and qualification submissions. The successful applicants are Scancom Plc (MTN Ghana), Ghana Telecommunications Company Limited (Telecel Ghana), and Goal Telecommunications Ltd. Infrava Ltd, however, did not meet the qualification requirements and was therefore disqualified.
The NCA said all applicants had been formally notified of the outcome of the assessment, with reasons provided where applicable. Only the three qualified applicants will advance to Stage 3 of the selection process. Consequently, the Envelope B submission from the non-qualified applicant will not be opened. The Authority said the successful applicants would be separately informed of the date, time and venue for the opening and ranking of their Best Price Offers.
Background
The 5G spectrum licensing process officially began on July 16, 2026, when the National Communications Authority (NCA) announced a Request for Applications for spectrum licenses in the 700 MHz, 2.3 GHz, and 3 GHz mid bands to provide mobile broadband services, including 5G. Following this announcement, the Authority held a Pre-Application Briefing on Monday, July 27, 2026. This event allowed prospective applicants to ask for clarifications regarding the Request for Applications and the Selection and Award Procedure.
Information covered included the available spectrum lots, eligibility criteria, application requirements, rollout obligations, and the evaluation process. Eligible entities for the spectrum licenses included licensed Mobile Network Operators, Mobile Virtual Network Operators, Broadband Wireless Access Providers, Internet Service Providers, and 100% Ghanaian-owned new entrants. This licensing initiative is part of Ghana’s broader efforts to expand mobile broadband services and accelerate the country’s digital transformation agenda.
