Ghana: Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775) including operational license requirement entered into force

On 9 January 2009, Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775) entered into force. The Act specifies that operating a public electronic communications service or network, or providing a voice telephony service, requires a licence granted by the National Communications Authority (NCA). Individuals or entities wishing to operate such services must apply to the NCA, which may grant or refuse the application based on published policies and rules. Licences are subject to conditions, including the effective use of resources like radio frequencies, adherence to technical and operational standards, and obligations related to consumer protection and universal service provision. The NCA is also responsible for conducting public hearings for initial licence applications and ensuring that licence terms are accessible to the public.