Telcos, hoping for a reduction of the cost of the 4G LTE spectrum before jumping on the band may have to reconsider their decision. This is because the Communications Ministry has reaffirmed its position to maintain the cost of the 4G LTE at 67.5 million dollars. Presently, only MTN has been able to acquire one of the 4G spectrum from the National Communications Authority with the three remaining networks complaining that the 67.5 million dollars price is too high. The 4G, when acquired will among other benefits ensure fast internet speed. But Deputy Communications Minister, George Andah has maintained that not much can be done about the price of the spectrum. Speaking at the launch of the Africa Regional Development Forum, Mr. Andah explained that the Telcos will be the major benefactors. “In every industry, every player would want the cost of whatever infrastructure or licenses they use to operate to come down. We believe that the cost is fair, and if there is new information that requires for a relook at it, we will have a look at it,” he explained. [embed]

Management of Vodafone ruled out entering the 4G LTE space, because of the cost. However, Mr. Andah said government is embarking on several projects to ensure that the cost of doing business in the telecommunications industry is reduced. He said “government is putting the proper infrastructure in place so that the cost to market by the telcos is actually lowered ad once this is done, then the end price that they are passing over to subscribers will be lower.” He cited investments by government in the Eastern Corridor and preparations to start work on the western corridor as part of efforts to improve the telecommunications industry. Meanwhile, the Africa Regional Development Forum will be held from July 18 to July 20, 2018. The forum will focus on the theme “ICT4SDGs: Towards the implementation of WTDC17 outcomes”. It is organized in partnership with the Ministry of Communications. Source: citinewsroom.com

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