Ghana Opens Wholesale 5G Market as NCA Amends NGIC Licence | The National Communications Authority (NCA) has taken a decisive step to reshape Ghana’s telecommunications landscape. Acting in the public interest, the Authority has amended the Wholesale Electronic Communications Infrastructure Licence issued to Next Gen Infraco Limited (NGIC), removing the exclusivity clause that granted NGIC sole rights to operate Ghana’s wholesale 5G infrastructure.
The NCA explained, “The public interest is better served by a competitive wholesale 5G market that promotes investment, innovation, network resilience, service quality and wider access to advanced communications services.” This marks a major shift from the original framework, which gave NGIC the sole right to own and operate wholesale 5G infrastructure in the country.
The Authority emphasised that its power to amend licences stems from Article 6.1.2 of NGIC’s Licence and section 14 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775). In line with the law, the NCA issued a Notice of Proposed Amendment to NGIC on March 2, 2026, followed by meetings and consultations. NGIC submitted objections on April 1, 2026, and later made oral representations before the Governing Board on May 28, 2026. After reviewing these submissions, the Authority concluded that removing the exclusivity condition was in the public interest.
Importantly, the amendment affects only the exclusivity clause. Moreover, NGIC retains all other rights and obligations under its Licence, including spectrum assignments. The NCA clarified, “The amendment relates only to that specific condition and does not affect the validity of the remainder of the Licence.”
The change officially takes effect from July 15, 2026. Looking ahead, the Authority expects this move to stimulate competition in the wholesale 5G market, encourage fresh investment, and accelerate Ghana’s digital transformation agenda. As the NCA noted, “The amendment will promote competition in the wholesale 5G market, encourage investment and innovation, and further advance Ghana’s digital transformation agenda in the public interest.”
This decision signals a new era for Ghana’s telecommunications sector, opening the door for multiple players to contribute to building resilient, high-quality 5G infrastructure. By prioritising competition and innovation, the NCA aims to ensure that advanced communications services reach more people across the country.
Ghana Opens Wholesale 5G Market as NCA Amends NGIC Licence | AviationGhana
