The National Communications Authority (NCA) has officially declared the operations of Starlink, the satellite internet service provided by SpaceX, as illegal in Ghana.
In a press release issued on December 7, 2023, the NCA stated that Starlink has not been licensed to operate in the country, and none of its equipment has been approved.
According to the NCA, any entity selling Starlink equipment or providing Starlink services is in direct violation of the Electronic Communications Act 2008. The public has been warned against purchasing any equipment or services from Starlink, and individuals or companies involved in the sale or operation of Starlink services are directed to cease and desist immediately.
The NCA emphasizes its commitment to ensuring fair competition in the market and protecting licensees and consumers. Starlink, on its website, had indicated plans to provide services in Ghana by the third quarter of 2024, subject to regulatory approval.
However, some middlemen in Ghana are already offering Starlink services, quoting installation prices ranging between GHS1,100 and GHS18,000 monthly. The implications of the NCA’s announcement for existing Starlink users in Ghana remain unclear, as no specific enforcement actions have been announced yet. Possible outcomes could include sanctions for vendors or negotiations between the NCA and Starlink for obtaining a license to operate in Ghana.
Starlink, a constellation of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites launched by SpaceX, aims to provide high-speed internet access globally, even in hard-to-reach areas. The NCA’s move raises questions about the future of Starlink services in Ghana and the regulatory approval process.
Starlink Operations are Illegal in Ghanahttps://t.co/XQbdekDJj3 pic.twitter.com/e6sybAqvOc
— NCA Ghana (@NCAGhana) December 7, 2023
tigpost.co
