MTN Ghana has been awarded fresh spectrum in the 700 MHz and 3 GHz bands in a package worth roughly $202 million, a move the company says will strengthen its 5G coverage and mobile broadband network across Ghana.
Award details
The Ghana National Communications Authority (NCA) issued a notice of award for licences that will run for 15 years once formally issued. MTN Ghana is completing the required formalities and payments to finalise the acquisition. In the 700 MHz band the operator will receive two 20 MHz lots priced at about $100.9 million, and in the 3 GHz band it will receive a single 150 MHz block valued at about $101.1 million—together adding up to just over $200 million.
How MTN Ghana will use the new spectrum
MTN Ghana plans to operate the newly awarded airwaves alongside its existing spectrum to increase network capacity, improve service quality and deliver a smoother experience for subscribers, particularly in congested areas. The 700 MHz band is well suited for wide-area coverage and indoor penetration, while the 3 GHz band provides the speeds and capacity essential for 5G; combining both bands is intended to support broader coverage and heavier data demand.
Financial and rollout notes
The company said the licence payments are built into its equity free cash flow outlook. MTN Ghana and MTN Group have stated they will keep the public informed of any material developments as the rollout of the newly awarded spectrum and associated high-speed 5G services progresses. The announcement coincides with MTN marking 30 years of operations in Ghana.
