The National Communications Authority (NCA) has announced that the operation of Starlink in Ghana is illegal.
In a press release issued on December 7, 2023, the NCA explained that it has not licensed Starlink, the satellite internet service provided by SpaceX, to operate in Ghana and has also not approved any Starlink equipment.
This means that any entity selling Starlink equipment or providing Starlink services in Ghana is in direct violation of the Electronic Communications Act 2008.
The NCA in the statement warned the public not to buy equipment or services from Starlink.
He also warned individuals or companies involved in selling or operating Starlink services in Ghana to cease and desist immediately.
The NCA has assured the public that it will continue to ensure fair competition in the market and protect licensees and consumers.
On its website, Starlink says it is targeting services in Ghana in the third quarter of 2024. It adds that availability is subject to regulatory approval.
However, some intermediaries are already cashing in on the service in Ghana, quoting setup prices ranging between GH¢1,100 to GH¢18,000 monthly.
What does this mean for Starlink users in Ghana?
It is unclear what the implications of this announcement will be for Starlink users in Ghana.
The NCA has yet to announce specific enforcement actions.
However, it is possible that sellers may be fined or have their equipment confiscated.
It is also possible that NCA will negotiate with Starlink to obtain a license to operate in Ghana.
This would allow Starlink to continue to provide services to its customers in Ghana.
What is Starlink?
Starlink is a constellation of LEO satellites launched by SpaceX to provide satellite Internet access around the world.
The system is designed to bring high-speed internet even to hard-to-reach areas.
Starlink is facing pushback across Africa
Regulators in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Senegal have recently issued similar warnings to the public and unlicensed Starlink resellers.
South Africa’s Independent Communications Authority said on November 28 that Starlink products were being distributed in South Africa without a license from within the country and from neighboring countries.
Those providing Starlink services in South Africa without a license could face a fine of about $264,000 or 10% of their annual turnover for each day the offense continues, whichever is greater, the regulator warned.
Starlink has been approved to operate elsewhere in Africa, including Nigeria and Mozambique, the first countries on the continent to approve the network last year.