Declaring its operations illegal, the National Communications Authority (NCA) has issued a strong warning against the use and sale of Starlink internet services in Ghana.

The NCA affirmed that none of Starlink’s equipment has been authorized for use within the nation or granted a license by it.

SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service seeks to give underserved communities in Ghana and other underdeveloped regions of the world high-speed, low-latency internet access.

“The attention of the National Communications Authority (NCA) has been drawn to the alleged sale of Starlink equipment and its operations in Ghana,” read a statement released by the NCA on Thursday, December 7. We would like to notify the public that neither Starlink’s operations in Ghana nor any of their equipment have been type-approved by the NCA.

“Any entity which provides electronic communication services in Ghana without a Licence or Authorization from the NCA is in direct violation of Section 3(1) of the Electronic Communications Act 2008, Act 775 which states that, Except as otherwise provided under this Act a person shall not operate a public electronic communications service or network or provide a voice telephony service without a licence granted by the Authority,” it said.

The NCA advised people not to use any equipment or services that appear to be from Starlink.

“Persons engaging in the sale or operations of the service are also directed to cease and desist immediately.”

“The NCA wishes to assure the general public that as an entity established by law, the Authority will continue to ensure fair participation and competition in the market to safeguard its licensees and consumers.”