Ghanaian lawmaker warns high 5G fees may increase data costs

Abed-Nego Bandim, Chairperson of Parliament’s Committee on Information and Communications, has warned that high 5G spectrum and license fees in Ghana could lead to increased data costs for consumers. Speaking at the 28th Forum of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, Bandim noted that if operators pay steep prices to acquire frequencies, they are likely to pass those costs on to subscribers, potentially making the digital economy a privilege rather than a tool for national development.

Telecom operators in Ghana are already facing significant financial pressures, including heavy taxation. Reports indicate that telecom firms paid approximately GH¢15 billion in taxes in 2025. Bandim urged the government to review the full range of costs affecting the sector, including unresolved losses from fiber-cutting incidents.

As Ghana transitions to 5G, the National Communications Authority has begun assigning spectrum. MTN Ghana recently secured two lots in the 700 MHz band for a combined fee of US$100.9 million, while Telecel Ghana secured three lots in the 2.3 GHz band. The policy challenge remains balancing government revenue from spectrum auctions against the need to encourage network investment and affordable connectivity.