• NCA tightens telecom rules as Ghanaians question years of poor network service
• New NCA standards expose mobile operators over dropped calls and weak data speeds
• Mandatory coverage expansion sparks debate over telecom compliance and rural neglect
Mobile phone users across Ghana may soon experience clearer calls, faster internet, and more reliable messaging following new service quality rules announced by the National Communications Authority (NCA).
In a press release issued in Accra on February 15, 2026, the regulator revealed sweeping amendments to the Quality of Service (QoS) Key Performance Indicators governing mobile telecommunications providers. The updated standards take immediate effect and are designed to reflect modern technology, growing data usage, and consumer expectations.
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For years, subscribers have complained about dropped calls, failed connections, and sluggish internet speeds. The NCA says the new thresholds are meant to reverse those frustrations and hold mobile network operators more accountable.
Clearer Calls, Better Connections
Under the revised rules, operators must dramatically improve voice service reliability. The allowable call drop rate has been reduced from 3 percent to less than 1 percent. Additionally, more than 95 percent of attempted calls must successfully connect across at least 90 percent of network cells within each Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assembly.
To enhance call clarity, a minimum voice quality benchmark has also been introduced, requiring an average Mean Opinion Score above 3.0 for 2G services.
Faster Internet Speeds
Mobile internet users also stand to benefit. The NCA now requires 3G networks to deliver average download speeds exceeding 1 Mbps — a major jump from the previous 256 kbps threshold.
Reliable Messaging
Text messaging performance is also under scrutiny. Operators must now ensure a delivery success rate of at least 98 percent, while SMS and MMS delivery times must not exceed five seconds.
Coverage Expansion Now Mandatory
In a move expected to improve connectivity in underserved areas, mobile network operators are now required to extend coverage to all constituent towns within every MMDA. Previously, expansion beyond district capitals was encouraged but not compulsory. The new directive makes compliance a licence obligation.
Monitoring and Sanctions
The NCA says it will intensify monitoring and field testing to ensure compliance. Operators who fail to meet the new standards risk regulatory sanctions.
Consumers Urged to Report Poor Service
Subscribers experiencing persistent service problems are encouraged to lodge complaints via the NCA toll-free line (0800 30 30 30), email (complaints@nca.org.gh), social media platforms, or by visiting any NCA office nationwide.
The Authority maintains that the revised standards form part of broader regulatory efforts to protect consumers and improve service delivery across Ghana’s telecommunications sector.
If effectively enforced, the new measures could mark a turning point for millions of mobile users who rely daily on voice, data, and messaging services for business, education, and social connection.
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