The National Communications Authority (NCA) has denied reports that telecommunication tariffs in Ghana will be increased next year.
The response from the regulator follows reports that the interconnect charges between telcos would go up BY about 50% from January 2015.
The Interconnection Rate is the charge which one telecommunications operator charges the other for terminating calls on its network.
However, according to the NCA in a press statement, the reported facts of the issue are not reflective of the on-going process by the authority in reviewing wholesale interconnection rates for the mobile network operators.
‘The National Communications Authority’s attention has been drawn to some press reportage that telecom tariffs will go up next year.
The facts of the issue as reported in the press are not reflective of the on-going process by the Authority in reviewing Wholesale Interconnection Rates for the mobile network operators’.
The NCA adds that following the introduction of the Interconnect Clearing House next year, the chances of a hike is mitigated.
‘At the Public Forum on the Clearing House Licence held on 26th November, 2014, the NCA shed light on the impact that the Interconnect Clearing House to be introduced in May, 2015 would have on the Wholesale Interconnection Rates. The Authority also explained how the operations of the Clearing House will mitigate the rising trends of the Wholesale Interconnection Rates going forward.’
It further assures all concerns raised by the various stakeholders on the matter will be addressed.
‘The NCA would like to assure the general public that we are aware of the impact and benefits of telecommunication services and that the Authority remains committed to ensuring that the expectations of all stakeholders within the industry are met.’
By: Anim Kwaku Boadu/citifmonline.com/Ghana