MTN Ghana (Scancom PLC) has secured new spectrum licences in the 700MHz and 3GHz frequency bands from the National Communications Authority (NCA), paving the way for a significant expansion of its 5G and mobile broadband services across the country.
The award follows the regulator’s invitation to telecommunications operators to apply for spectrum licences in the 700MHz, 2.3GHz and 3GHz bands to support the deployment of 5G and enhanced mobile broadband services. The licences are valid for 15 years.
The acquisition represents a total investment of approximately US$202 million, underscoring the company’s commitment to strengthening Ghana’s digital infrastructure and accelerating next-generation connectivity.
In the 700MHz band, MTN Ghana was awarded two of the three available lots, providing the operator with 2 x 20MHz of spectrum at a licence fee of US$100.9 million.
The company also secured all three available lots in the 3GHz band, amounting to a 150MHz block for US$101.1 million.
Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, described the spectrum award as a major milestone in the company’s long-term growth strategy.
“This award marks an important milestone in our commitment to building the infrastructure that will transform Ghana’s digital landscape,” he said.
According to the company, the newly acquired spectrum will significantly enhance both coverage and capacity on its network.
The lower-frequency 700MHz band is expected to improve network reach, enabling MTN to extend quality connectivity into more communities across Ghana, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
Meanwhile, the 3GHz spectrum will provide the high-capacity bandwidth necessary to deliver faster 5G services in densely populated and high-demand locations.
Blewett noted that the combination of the two spectrum bands would enable MTN to improve service delivery, support wider 5G adoption and expand home broadband offerings.
“Together, they allow us to serve more customers better, grow 5G mobility and bring reliable home internet to more Ghanaian households. We thank the National Communications Authority for this opportunity, and we look forward to deploying this spectrum to work for our customers,” he added.
The company said that once the licences are formally issued, it will integrate the new spectrum with its existing frequency holdings to boost network capacity, improve service quality and enhance customer experience nationwide.
The additional spectrum is expected to play a central role in MTN Ghana’s plans to scale up 5G mobile services while supporting growing demand for fixed wireless and home broadband connectivity.
MTN Ghana said it will continue to update customers, shareholders and the investing public on developments related to the spectrum rollout and expansion of its high-speed 5G services.
Scancom PLC, listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange, remains the country’s largest mobile telecommunications operator and is part of the MTN Group, which operates across multiple emerging markets in Africa and the Middle East.
Source: businesspostonline
