The National Communications Authority (NCA) has announced measures towards correcting market imbalances and boosting consumer choice in the telecommunications sector with the introduction of technology neutrality for non-SMP operators.
Driving The News
According to the NCA, its new initiative is to help address Significant Market Power (SMP) in the sector by enabling operators who do not currently have 4G services to deploy it within their current spectrum assignment to help level the playing field and enhance their competitiveness.
What They’re Saying
“This initiative will grant Vodafone and AT the authorisation to re-farm their spectrum assignment in the 900MHz, 1800MHz, and 2100MHz bands to provide 4G services, subject to paying an annual premium.”, a statement from the NCA.
Why This Matters
About two years ago, the NCA declared MTN as an SMP due to its dominance of the telecom sector where they have over 75% of the market share, in terms of 3G and 4G.
The Bigger Picture
MTN is still the biggest player in the sector, capturing over 65% of the market which includes Vodafone Ghana (under new ownership by Telecel Group) and AT (formally known as AirtelTigo).
MTN is currently working to launch its 5G network sometime this year after delaying its pilot in 2022.
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