TIG Post

Tag: Starlink

  • You can’t operate in Ghana without an office – Communications Minister to Starlink

    You can’t operate in Ghana without an office – Communications Minister to Starlink

    Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has emphasized that Starlink cannot operate in Ghana without a physical presence or an office in the country. 

    Speaking on TV3’s New Day show today, he said, “I have asked the regulator to inform the company that they need to open an office in Accra.”

    He added, “They need to have an office. You can’t operate in our country and not have presence here. I felt that the decision to give the licence without making sure that their resident in the country was poorly thought through.”

    “Today, if there is a problem involving a client of Starlink and the regulator needs to speak to Starlink, we need to send an email to someone sitting in the US and it will take them two to three weeks to come down. What kind of regulation is that?” the sector minister quizzed.

    This requirement aligns with Ghana’s regulations for providing electronic communication services, which mandates a license and authorization from the National Communications Authority (NCA). 

    Elon Musk’s Starlink officially commenced providing internet service to Ghana close to the end of August last year.

    The regulatory body, NCA, confirmed that all required administrative and licensing formalities had been completed, clearing the path for Starlink to begin delivering its high-speed internet services across the country.

    In a statement released on Thursday, August 22, 2024, the NCA disclosed that Starlink’s operations in Ghana would be managed by Space X Starlink GH LTD, a local branch of Musk’s SpaceX.

    “Starlink will officially commence operations in Ghana by the end of this month. This follows the conclusion of all administrative and licensing procedures with the National Communications Authority (NCA). Starlink will be operated by Space X Starlink GH LTD,” the statement confirmed.

    This marked a significant turnaround from the NCA’s stance in December 2023 when it declared Starlink’s operations illegal due to the absence of a license and proper equipment approval.

    At that time, the public was warned against purchasing Starlink’s equipment, and distributors were ordered to halt all activities.

    However, by March 2024, the tides began to shift as discussions around Starlink’s licensing resumed, fueled in part by widespread internet disruptions across West and Central Africa.

    During a Parliamentary session, the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful,hinted at the possibility of Starlink gaining authorization.

    “We have licensed satellite gateway air stations, landing rights, and satellite air station networks. One web has already been licensed. Starlink is in the process of being licensed, and other operators are being encouraged to land in Ghana,” she stated.

    Starlink, an ambitious project by SpaceX, aims to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet across the globe, with a particular focus on rural and remote areas that have long struggled with poor connectivity.

  • NCC to penalize Elon Musk’s Starlink for unapproved price increase

    NCC to penalize Elon Musk’s Starlink for unapproved price increase

    The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has revealed its intention to take enforcement action against Elon Musk’s Starlink, a satellite internet provider, for increasing its subscription prices in Nigeria without regulatory approval.

    This information was shared in a statement on Tuesday by Reuben Muoka, the commission’s Director of Public Affairs.

    Last week, Starlink notified its customers about the price hike, which will impact both current and new subscribers.

    The monthly subscription fee has jumped by 97%, rising from N38,000 to N75,000.

    Moreover, the cost of the Starlink kit (the equipment needed for installation) has increased by 34%, with the new price now set at N590,000, up from the previous N440,000.

    Despite these changes, the NCC clarified that it had not authorized the price adjustments.

    “The decision by Starlink to unilaterally review its subscription packages upwards did not receive the approval of the Nigerian Communications Commission,” Muoka said.

    He stated that the commission was “surprised” when the company announced the price changes, even though it had submitted a request to the NCC for a price adjustment that had not yet been approved by the regulator.

    He added, “The action of the company appears to be a contravention of Sections 108 and 111 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, and Starlink’s Licence Conditions regarding tariffs.

    “The commission will, therefore, take appropriate enforcement measures against any action by a licensee that is capable of eroding the regulatory stability of the telecommunications industry.”

    Section 108 of the NCA 2003 grants the NCC the power to regulate telecommunications tariffs, specifying that no licensee is allowed to implement service charges without securing tariff approval from the commission.

    Furthermore, Section 111 of the Act authorizes the NCC to enforce financial penalties on any licensee that surpasses the approved tariffs, irrespective of other legal provisions.

    “Notwithstanding any other provision of this Act, the commission shall prescribe and enforce appropriate financial penalties upon any holder of an individual licence who exceeds the tariff rates duly approved by the commission for the provision of any of its services,” the Act read.

  • GHC770 to GHC17,700: Check out Starlink’s service plans for Ghana

    GHC770 to GHC17,700: Check out Starlink’s service plans for Ghana

    Starlink, the satellite internet service by SpaceX, has unveiled a range of service plans in Ghana, catering to various internet needs from household use to high-demand business operations.

    The monthly service plans range from GHC770 to GHC17,700, offering different levels of service based on speed, data priority, and mobility.

    Here’s a breakdown of the available service plans:

    Standard Plan – GHC770/Month

    The Standard plan, priced at GHC770 per month, is designed for household users who require unlimited high-speed, low-latency internet. This plan is ideal for families looking for a reliable internet connection for everyday activities such as streaming, browsing, and online communication.

    Priority Plan – GHC1,078/Month

    For businesses and high-demand users, the Priority plan offers enhanced features at GHC1,078 per month. This plan includes unlimited standard data, a public IP address, network priority, and priority support. It also offers an additional 40GB of Priority Data, ensuring that businesses with critical operations maintain a steady and reliable connection.

    Mobile Plan – GHC1,540/Month

    The Mobile plan, priced at GHC1,540 per month, is tailored for RVs, nomads, and campers. It provides unlimited mobile data inland, with features like portability and the ability to pause service when not in use. This plan is perfect for users who need consistent internet access while on the move.

    Mobile Priority Plan – GHC4,428 to GHC17,710/Month

    For users with even higher demands, such as maritime operations, emergency response teams, and mobile businesses, the Mobile Priority plan offers top-tier service. The pricing starts at GHC4,428 per month for 50GB of data and goes up to GHC17,710 per month for 1TB of data. This plan includes unlimited inland data, in-motion and ocean use capabilities, network priority, and priority support, making it the most comprehensive plan offered by Starlink.

    Ghana is poised to launch Elon Musk’s Starlink internet service by the close of August 2024, according to an announcement by the National Communications Authority (NCA).

    The regulatory body has confirmed that all required administrative and licensing formalities have been completed, clearing the path for Starlink to begin delivering its high-speed internet services across the country.

    In a statement released on Thursday, August 22, 2024, the NCA disclosed that Starlink’s operations in Ghana would be managed by Space X Starlink GH LTD, a local branch of Musk’s SpaceX.

    “Starlink will officially commence operations in Ghana by the end of this month. This follows the conclusion of all administrative and licensing procedures with the National Communications Authority (NCA). Starlink will be operated by Space X Starlink GH LTD,” the statement confirmed.

    This marks a significant turnaround from the NCA’s stance in December 2023 when it declared Starlink’s operations illegal due to the absence of a license and proper equipment approval.

    At that time, the public was warned against purchasing Starlink’s equipment, and distributors were ordered to halt all activities.

    However, by March 2024, the tides began to shift as discussions around Starlink’s licensing resumed, fueled in part by widespread internet disruptions across West and Central Africa.

    During a Parliamentary session, the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful,hinted at the possibility of Starlink gaining authorization.

    “We have licensed satellite gateway air stations, landing rights, and satellite air station networks. One web has already been licensed. Starlink is in the process of being licensed, and other operators are being encouraged to land in Ghana,” she stated.

    Starlink, an ambitious project by SpaceX, aims to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet across the globe, with a particular focus on rural and remote areas that have long struggled with poor connectivity.

  • Elon Musk’s Starlink to commence operations in Ghana by end of August – NCA

    Elon Musk’s Starlink to commence operations in Ghana by end of August – NCA

    Ghana is poised to launch Elon Musk’s Starlink internet service by the close of August 2024, according to an announcement by the National Communications Authority (NCA).

    The regulatory body has confirmed that all required administrative and licensing formalities have been completed, clearing the path for Starlink to begin delivering its high-speed internet services across the country.

    In a statement released on Thursday, August 22, 2024, the NCA disclosed that Starlink’s operations in Ghana would be managed by Space X Starlink GH LTD, a local branch of Musk’s SpaceX.

    “Starlink will officially commence operations in Ghana by the end of this month. This follows the conclusion of all administrative and licensing procedures with the National Communications Authority (NCA). Starlink will be operated by Space X Starlink GH LTD,” the statement confirmed.

    This marks a significant turnaround from the NCA’s stance in December 2023 when it declared Starlink’s operations illegal due to the absence of a license and proper equipment approval.

    At that time, the public was warned against purchasing Starlink’s equipment, and distributors were ordered to halt all activities.

    However, by March 2024, the tides began to shift as discussions around Starlink’s licensing resumed, fueled in part by widespread internet disruptions across West and Central Africa.

    During a Parliamentary session, the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful,hinted at the possibility of Starlink gaining authorization.

    “We have licensed satellite gateway air stations, landing rights, and satellite air station networks. One web has already been licensed. Starlink is in the process of being licensed, and other operators are being encouraged to land in Ghana,” she stated.

    Starlink, an ambitious project by SpaceX, aims to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet across the globe, with a particular focus on rural and remote areas that have long struggled with poor connectivity.

  • NCA approves Starlink’s satellite broadband service application

    NCA approves Starlink’s satellite broadband service application

      National Communications Authority (NCA) has granted approval to Space X Starlink GH LTD, the operator of Starlink Satellite Broadband, to offer Satellite Broadband Services within the country.

      The NCA’s decision, conveyed through an official statement on April 25, represents a crucial milestone following the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation’s backing of the Satellite Licensing Framework in Ghana.

      “The administrative processes towards the issuance of the license is ongoing and will be completed shortly,” the statement added.

    1. Ghanaian users of Starlink will be cut off at the end of April 2024

      Ghanaian users of Starlink will be cut off at the end of April 2024

      As of April 30, Ghanaians who have subscribed to Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service, despite its lack of licensing in the country, will no longer have access to the service.

      This discontinuation also extends to other nations such as Niger, Chad, Egypt, Angola, South Africa, and Burkina Faso, where Starlink’s internet connectivity remains unavailable, as per the Starlink Availability Map as of April 16, 2024.

      Starlink announced the impending disconnection in a communiqué, stating, “As we continue to receive regulatory approvals to turn on Availability Map, we would like to remind you that this is in violation of the Starlink Terms and starting April 30th, 2024, you will be unable to connect to the internet except to access your Starlink account where you can make updates to your account. This restriction does not apply in areas designated as ‘Available’ on the Starlink Availability Map.”

      Ghana reportedly had Starlink service availability in Q4 2023. However, the current status on the availability map now reads, “Service date is unknown at this time.”

      On December 7th, 2023, the National Communications Authority (NCA) of Ghana deemed Starlink’s operations illegal due to the absence of a license and approval for its equipment. Consequently, the public received a caution against procuring Starlink’s equipment or services, while distributors were instructed to halt operations promptly.

      However, by March 2024, there emerged a potential for Starlink to obtain licensing in Ghana, particularly amid prevalent internet disruptions in West and Central Africa.

      Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, mentioned in Parliament that “We have licensed satellite gateway air stations, landing rights, and satellite air station networks. One web has already been licensed. Starlink is in the process of being licensed, and other operators are being encouraged to land in Ghana.”

      Despite this, nearly a month has passed with little information on the progress of Starlink’s licensing in Ghana. Currently, Starlink cannot confirm when its services will be available in the country, though they are “working as quickly as possible to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals from local governments globally.”

      Starlink, a SpaceX initiative, aims to provide high-speed, low-latency internet worldwide, focusing on rural and remote areas previously without reliable connectivity.

      The company is still seeking regulatory approvals to expand its services and encourages supporters to advocate for approval in their respective countries.

      Below is the statement communicated by Starlink

      STARLINK

      The goal of Starlink is to provide reliable high-speed, low-latency internet to people all around the world, especially for those in rural and remote areas where internet connectivity has not been available, unreliable or too expensive.

      To do so, we’re working as quickly as possible to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals from local governments globally to be allowed to offer Starlink services in as many places as possible.

      As outlined in our Terms of Service, the availability of our Mobile Service Plans is contingent upon various factors, including regulatory approvals. If you are operating your Starlink Kit in an area other than areas designated as “Available” on the Starlink Availability Map, we would like to remind you that this is in violation of the Starlink Terms and starting April 30th, 2024, you will be unable to connect to the internet except to access your Starlink account where you can make updates to your account.

      This restriction does not apply in areas designated as “Available” on the Starlink Availability Map
      Additionally, the “Mobile – Regional” plans are intended for temporary travel and transit, not for permanent use in a location. If you have been using a “Mobile- Regional” plan for more than two months outside of the country in which you ordered Starlink, you must either see Support FAQs to change your account country or return to the country in which your service was ordered. Otherwise, your service will be restricted.

      As we continue to receive regulatory approvals to turn Availability Map, we would like to remind you that this is in violation of the Starlink Terms and starting April 30th, 2024, you will be unable to connect to the internet except to access your Starlink account where you can make updates to your account. This restriction does not apply in areas designated as “Available” on the Starlink Availability Map.

      Additionally, the “Mobile – Regional” plans are intended for temporary travel and transit, not for permanent use in a location. If you have been using a “Mobile- Regional” plan for more than two months outside of the country in which you ordered Starlink, you must either see Support FAQs to change your account country or return to the country in which your service was ordered. Otherwise, your service will be restricted.

      As we continue to receive regulatory approvals to turn on Starlink services in more countries, be sure to check out the Starlink Availability Mag to see where you can stay connected! Should you wish to advocate for Starlink to be approved in a given country, appropriate points of contact may be the local information, communications and technology regulator and/or ministry of communications. Depending on your intended use case, ministries of education, health or economy may also be relevant contacts.

      You can read our Terms of Service for more details on our Mobile service plans. Please contact Support if you have additional questions.

      The Starlink team

    2. Elon Musk’s Starlink set to cut off Ghana in global regulatory crackdown!

      Elon Musk’s Starlink set to cut off Ghana in global regulatory crackdown!

      Ghanaians who have signed up for Elon Musk’s Starlink, despite its unlicensed status in the country, are about to lose access to the satellite internet service from April 30.

      This move affects not only Ghana but also other countries like Niger, Chad, Egypt, Angola, South Africa and Burkina Faso, where Starlink’s internet connection is currently unavailable according to the Starlink Availability Map as of 16th April 2024.

      Starlink announced the impending disconnection in a communiqué, stating, “As we continue to receive regulatory approvals to turn on Availability Map, we would like to remind you that this is in violation of the Starlink Terms and starting April 30th, 2024, you will be unable to connect to the internet except to access your Starlink account where you can make updates to your account. This restriction does not apply in areas designated as ‘Available’ on the Starlink Availability Map.”

      Ghana reportedly had Starlink service availability in Q4 2023. However, the current status on the availability map now reads, “Service date is unknown at this time.”

      It is important to note that the National Communications Authority (NCA) of Ghana declared Starlink’s operations illegal on December 7th, 2023, citing the lack of a license and approval for its equipment.

      The public was cautioned against purchasing Starlink’s equipment or services, and distributors were ordered to cease operations immediately.

      However, in March 2024, there seemed to be a possibility of Starlink getting licensed in Ghana amidst widespread internet disruptions in West and Central Africa.

      Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, mentioned in Parliament that “We have licensed satellite gateway air stations, landing rights, and satellite air station networks. One web has already been licensed. Starlink is in the process of being licensed, and other operators are being encouraged to land in Ghana.”

      Despite this, nearly a month has passed with little information on the progress of Starlink’s licensing in Ghana. Currently, Starlink cannot confirm when its services will be available in the country, though they are “working as quickly as possible to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals from local governments globally.”

      Starlink, a SpaceX initiative, aims to provide high-speed, low-latency internet worldwide, focusing on rural and remote areas previously without reliable connectivity.

      The company is still seeking regulatory approvals to expand its services and encourages supporters to advocate for approval in their respective countries.

      Below is the statement communicated by Starlink

      STARLINK

      The goal of Starlink is to provide reliable high-speed, low-latency internet to people all around the world, especially for those in rural and remote areas where internet connectivity has not been available, unreliable or too expensive.

      To do so, we’re working as quickly as possible to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals from local governments globally to be allowed to offer Starlink services in as many places as possible.

      As outlined in our Terms of Service, the availability of our Mobile Service Plans is contingent upon various factors, including regulatory approvals. If you are operating your Starlink Kit in an area other than areas designated as “Available” on the Starlink Availability Map, we would like to remind you that this is in violation of the Starlink Terms and starting April 30th, 2024, you will be unable to connect to the internet except to access your Starlink account where you can make updates to your account.

      This restriction does not apply in areas designated as “Available” on the Starlink Availability Map
      Additionally, the “Mobile – Regional” plans are intended for temporary travel and transit, not for permanent use in a location. If you have been using a “Mobile- Regional” plan for more than two months outside of the country in which you ordered Starlink, you must either see Support FAQs to change your account country or return to the country in which your service was ordered. Otherwise, your service will be restricted.

      As we continue to receive regulatory approvals to turn Availability Map, we would like to remind you that this is in violation of the Starlink Terms and starting April 30th, 2024, you will be unable to connect to the internet except to access your Starlink account where you can make updates to your account. This restriction does not apply in areas designated as “Available” on the Starlink Availability Map.

      Additionally, the “Mobile – Regional” plans are intended for temporary travel and transit, not for permanent use in a location. If you have been using a “Mobile- Regional” plan for more than two months outside of the country in which you ordered Starlink, you must either see Support FAQs to change your account country or return to the country in which your service was ordered. Otherwise, your service will be restricted.

      As we continue to receive regulatory approvals to turn on Starlink services in more countries, be sure to check out the Starlink Availability Mag to see where you can stay connected! Should you wish to advocate for Starlink to be approved in a given country, appropriate points of contact may be the local information, communications and technology regulator and/or ministry of communications. Depending on your intended use case, ministries of education, health or economy may also be relevant contacts.

      You can read our Terms of Service for more details on our Mobile service plans. Please contact Support if you have additional questions.

      The Starlink team

    3. Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service to cease operations in South Africa by April 30

      Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service to cease operations in South Africa by April 30

      The local media has reported that Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service is ceasing operations in South Africa.

      Starlink has informed its South African users that internet access will cease by the end of the month, as the service is not registered in the country, as reported by privately owned News 24 website.

      This announcement follows shortly after Starlink notified its users in Zimbabwe of the discontinuation of services, following a directive from the communications regulator, citing lack of authorization.

      Starlink also terminated services in the Democratic Republic of Congo last month, following directives from the country’s regulators.

      The service has additionally faced a ban in Botswana, as local authorities rejected its license application.

      Despite its costliness, some Africans have chosen to install Starlink due to its provision of a more dependable internet connection compared to many local alternatives, particularly in remote rural areas.

    4. NCA makes U-turn, ‘begs’ for Elon Musk’s Starlink amid Internet crisis in Ghana

      NCA makes U-turn, ‘begs’ for Elon Musk’s Starlink amid Internet crisis in Ghana

      Three months ago, the operations of Starlink, the satellite internet service provided by SpaceX, owned by Elon Musk, were deemed illegal in Ghana.

      In a press release issued on December 7, 2023, the National Communications Authority (NCA) stated that Starlink has not been licensed to operate in the country, and none of its equipment has been approved.

      As such, the Authority warned the public against purchasing any equipment or services from Starlink. Also, individuals or companies involved in the sale or operation of Starlink services were directed to cease and desist immediately.

      Presently, it appears that the very company Ghana did not want to do business with is the very one that can mitigate the effect of the network crisis that has hit several countries, such Liberia, South Africa, Ivory Coast, Ghana, among others.

      On Thursday, March 14, mobile network customers observed hours of disruption in internet, data and voice services providers by telecommunication companies in the country.

      The difficulty experienced by companies and members of the general public has been attributed to outages on multiple submarines optic fibre cables that come into Ghana.

      The NCA, in its update on the crisis over the weekend, noted that information gathered indicates that it would take at least five weeks for challenges with the submarines optic fibre cables be resolved.

      On Monday, March 18, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, who heads the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation, which oversees the running of the NCA, made an appearance before Parliament to brief the House on the steps government has taken to ensure businesses and Ghanaians are protected during the internet crisis.

      Part of the interim solution is to run to Starlink for assistance, she said.

      “We have licensed satellite gateway air stations, landing rights, and satellite air station networks. One web has already been licensed. Starlink is in the process of being licensed and other operators are being encouraged to land in Ghana,” the minister said.

      The issue of Starlink’s past was brought up in Parliament and Madam Owusu-Ekuful has assured that the ministry has conducted due diligence and is prepared to grant an operating license to Starlink to enhance internet accessibility.

      “A draft framework was subjected to industry consultation and approved by industry. The objective of the framework is to provide increased regulatory oversight for the services, more connectivity solutions or options for consumers, and other measures,” she added.

      She noted, however, that the service provided by Starlink is costly. According to her, there are plans to involve other sector players to serve individuals across various economic backgrounds.

      “However, I must remind us all that the fee charged by the satellite, low-earth orbit satellite operators like Starlink for hardware and services show that they will cater for high-end value subscribers because they are expensive.

      “We’re currently also having discussions about affordable back-haul satellite solutions with all satellite service providers under the auspices of the ITU. This conversation has been ongoing for a while, but I believe what has happened in the recent past will activate and energise these discussions for solutions to be reached soon.”

      As of December 2023, it was reported that some middlemen in Ghana were offering Starlink services, quoting installation prices ranging between GHS1,100 and GHS18,000 monthly.

      Under the current circumstances, these prices are likely to increase by half of these prices or double due to factors such as increasing demand or producer pricing.

      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.

    5. It is not illegal to sell or use Starlink in Ghana – Barker-Vormawor

      It is not illegal to sell or use Starlink in Ghana – Barker-Vormawor

      Renowned activist and leader of the #FixTheCountry and #OccupyJulorbiHouse movements, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, has encouraged Ghanaians who are planning to use or sell Starlink in Ghana to do so.

      He gave the advice despite the fact that the operations of Starlink, a satellite internet network, are not licensed in the country.

      In a post on X on March 16, when the country began witnessing a disruption in internet connectivity, he wrote, “Just so you are better informed; it is not illegal to sell or use Starlink in Ghana. Don’t let anybody deceive you about the state of the law.”

      In December 2023, the ministry issued a warning to the public against purchasing products from Starlink, emphasizing that the company was not licensed to operate in Ghana.

      The notice said, “Any entity which provides electronic communication services in Ghana without a Licence or Authorisation from the NCA is in direct violation of Section 3(1) of the Electronic Communications Act 2008, Act 775 which states that, ‘Except as otherwise provided under this Act a person shall not operate a public electronic communications service or network or provide a voice telephony service without a licence granted by the Authority”.

      Presently, Madam Owusu-Ekuful has assured that the ministry has conducted due diligence and is prepared to grant an operating license to Starlink to enhance internet accessibility.

      “A draft framework was subjected to industry consultation and approved by industry. The objective of the framework is to provide increased regulatory oversight for the services, more connectivity solutions or options for consumers, and other measures,” she added.

      This move is aimed at tackling internet disruptions in the country.

      Briefing Parliament on the issue of internet disruptions on March 18, she said “We have licensed satellite gateway air stations, landing rights, and satellite air station networks. One web has already been licensed. Starlink is in the process of being licensed and other operators are being encouraged to land in Ghana.

      “We must also invest in operationalising RASCOM, the Regional African Satellite Company, instead of each country going alone.”

    6. Govt to approve Starlink’s operation in Ghana amidst network crisis

      Govt to approve Starlink’s operation in Ghana amidst network crisis

      Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, has revealed the government’s intention to license Starlink, a satellite internet network, to operate in Ghana.

      This move is aimed at tackling internet disruptions in the country.

      Briefing Parliament on the issue of internet disruptions on March 18, she said “We have licensed satellite gateway air stations, landing rights, and satellite air station networks. One web has already been licensed. Starlink is in the process of being licensed and other operators are being encouraged to land in Ghana.

      “We must also invest in operationalising RASCOM, the Regional African Satellite Company, instead of each country going alone.”

      She advised organizations to learn from these internet disruptions by storing their content, databases, applications, and services in at least two tier-three or tier-four data centers in the country, located at different locations.

      Additionally, she recommended utilizing the National Data Center as either their primary or backup recovery data host.

      Before the recent internet disruption, the minister noted that her department lacked the framework for licensing satellites. However, over the years, it has acquired the necessary expertise to license these satellites.

       “The NCA did not have a framework for licensing satellites but the Authority has in the last year concluded bench-marking and learning from other jurisdictions where this has been implemented. Currently, they have developed a satellite licensing framework in Ghana which has been approved by its board and awaiting the final policy approval.

      “This framework will provide the policies and rules relating to the application for frequency authorisations for satellite services in Ghana. It outlines the various categories of satellite services, the licensing requirements, and its associated fees,” she added.

      In December 2023, the ministry issued a warning to the public against purchasing products from Starlink, emphasizing that the company was not licensed to operate in Ghana.

      The notice said, “Any entity which provides electronic communication services in Ghana without a Licence or Authorisation from the NCA is in direct violation of Section 3(1) of the Electronic Communications Act 2008, Act 775 which states that, ‘Except as otherwise provided under this Act a person shall not operate a public electronic communications service or network or provide a voice telephony service without a licence granted by the Authority”.

      Presently, Madam Owusu-Ekuful has assured that the ministry has conducted due diligence and is prepared to grant an operating license to Starlink to enhance internet accessibility.

      “A draft framework was subjected to industry consultation and approved by industry. The objective of the framework is to provide increased regulatory oversight for the services, more connectivity solutions or options for consumers, and other measures,” she added.

      She noted, however, that the service provided by Starlink is costly. According to her, there are plans to involve other sector players to serve individuals across various economic backgrounds.

      “However, I must remind us all that the fee charged by the satellite, low-earth orbit satellite operators like Starlink for hardware and services show that they will cater for high-end value subscribers because they are expensive.

      “We’re currently also having discussions about affordable back-haul satellite solutions with all satellite service providers under the auspices of the ITU. This conversation has been ongoing for a while, but I believe what has happened in the recent past will activate and energise these discussions for solutions to be reached soon.”

    7. FLASHBACK: Elon Musk’s Starlink operations illegal in Ghana – NCA warns

      FLASHBACK: Elon Musk’s Starlink operations illegal in Ghana – NCA warns

      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.