MTN Ghana is set to roll out 5G services after the National Communications Authority (NCA) awarded it spectrum in the 700 MHz and 3 GHz bands, a move expected to cost the telecom giant about US$202 million and significantly expand its capacity to deliver high-speed mobile and fixed broadband across the country.
The award follows the NCA’s invitation to apply for spectrum licences in the 700 MHz, 2.3 GHz and 3 GHz mid-band frequencies for the provision of 5G and mobile broadband services.
In a notice to investors and shareholders, MTN Ghana said it is finalising the required formalities and payment obligations associated with the licence acquisition. The company disclosed that the licence payments have been incorporated into its equity free cash flow outlook.
According to details of the award, MTN Ghana secured two 20 MHz lots in the 700 MHz band for US101.1 million, bringing the total licence fee to US$202 million. The licences are expected to run for 15 years.
The licensing round, which began in July 2026, ended the previous exclusivity arrangement for 5G deployment held by Next-Gen InfraCo, as the NCA opened spectrum allocation to a competitive process. MTN Ghana, Telecel Ghana and Goal Telecommunications qualified to proceed to the next stage. MTN was the sole qualified applicant in the 700 MHz band and secured the maximum two lots, while it also won all three 50 MHz lots in the 3 GHz band. Telecel Ghana did not secure 3 GHz spectrum in this round, and the 2.3 GHz band remained under-subscribed.
MTN said once the licences are issued, it will deploy the new 5G spectrum alongside its existing holdings to strengthen network capacity, enhance service quality and improve customer experience across Ghana. It described the spectrum as critical to driving growth in 5G mobility and fulfilling its aspirations in home connectivity.
“The licence payments have been incorporated into the company’s equity free cash flow outlook,” MTN said in the circular. It added that it will keep the market informed of material developments as it advances the rollout of the newly awarded spectrum and high-speed 5G services.
The development is a major step in Ghana’s digital transformation agenda. The government has signalled plans to begin 5G deployment before the end of 2026, with the NCA working to complete spectrum assignments. Demand for faster, more reliable mobile connectivity has been rising, and operators are investing in next-generation infrastructure. The 700 MHz band is valued for wide coverage, including rural areas, while the 3 GHz band provides mid-band capacity for high-speed urban 5G. Fixed Wireless Access is seen as a key 5G use case, particularly where fibre penetration remains below 30%.
“The company appreciates the continued support of its shareholders and other stakeholders as it undertakes this strategic investment,” MTN added.
MTN Ghana shares closed at GH¢6.50 on October 2, up a pesewa on the day of the announcement.
