Ghana’s National Communications Authority (NCA) has released an updated National Frequency Allocation Table (NFAT), providing a revised framework for spectrum regulation across all radiocommunication services. This update reinforces Ghana’s alignment with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Radio Regulations and reflects national decisions aimed at improving coordination, expanding services, and enhancing regulatory transparency.
Defined Frequency Allocation and Licensing Protocols
The updated NFAT specifies the permitted uses of radio frequency bands ranging from 8.3 kHz to 3000 GHz. Each allocation is now clearly categorized into primary services (denoted in uppercase) and secondary services (shown in lowercase), improving clarity for users and regulators alike.
Key features include:
References to relevant ITU footnotes and regulatory clauses
Prioritized allocations for critical services such as aeronautical radionavigation, maritime mobile, and standard frequency/time signals, with technical safeguards to avoid harmful interference
A reminder that spectrum rights are not granted by the NFAT itself—users must obtain a license from the NCA prior to operating any radiocommunication service
Operational Restrictions and Interference Protection
Several frequency ranges now carry updated usage limitations to safeguard critical communications and prevent interference:
Amateur radio bands like 135.7–137.8 kHz and 472–479 kHz are authorized only at low output levels (1W or 5W e.i.r.p.) and must not interfere with safety-related services.
Pulse radionavigation systems are permitted in bands such as 117.6–129 kHz, provided they remain non-interfering.
Maritime mobile allocations are increasingly restricted to radiotelegraph services in select bands to protect navigational and emergency traffic.
NAVTEX and maritime safety information (MSI) transmissions are governed by strict ITU protocols, including Resolution 339 and Appendix 17.
Support for Scientific and Public Safety Applications
The revised NFAT continues to protect spectrum use for essential scientific and emergency services:
Radio astronomy and space research are shielded through coordination footnotes, ensuring minimal interference and coexistence with other services in shared bands.
Frequencies supporting meteorological and Earth observation satellites are allocated with exclusive or shared access and must follow defined coordination procedures, given their role in climate analysis and disaster readiness.
Cross-Border Coordination and International Harmonization
To promote spectrum harmony within the region, the NCA has included specific coordination obligations for services operating near national borders or in internationally sensitive bands:
Amateur radio and mobile satellite services must coordinate with neighboring regulators to avoid signal overlap.
Bands used by non-geostationary satellite systems (e.g., 137.175–137.825 MHz) are subject to ITU Article 9.11A, which limits the number of active satellites and mandates spectrum sharing procedures.
