NCA Publishes Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Service Operators

July 18, 2024: The National Communications Authority (NCA) has published the “Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Service Operators” on its official website. These Guidelines outlines the procedures and conditions under which the NCA will grant approval to telecommunications service operators for disconnecting services to users during a dispute.

In accordance with the NCA’s mandate under Section 3(r) of the National Communications Authority Act, 2008 (Act 769) and Section 6(m) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775), these guidelines ensure that the disconnection process is conducted in a transparent, fair, and consistent manner. They aim to protect the interests of consumers and maintain the integrity of the telecommunications industry.

The guidelines cover the following key areas:

• Request for Approval to Disconnect: Procedures for telecommunications service operators to apply for disconnection approval, including the necessary documentation and timelines.
• Conditions for Granting Approval: Criteria and considerations the NCA will use to evaluate disconnection requests, such as outstanding debts and previous payment records.
• Pre-Disconnection Notices: Requirements for notifying affected parties and the public before disconnection takes place.
• Remedial Steps and Reconnection: Measures to ensure that service providers adhere to their financial obligations and the conditions under which reconnection will be granted.

The guidelines are available for download at the following link: https://nca.org.gh/go/guidelines_for_procedure_of_disconnecting/

The NCA encourages all stakeholders, including telecommunications service operators and consumers, to familiarize themselves with these guidelines to ensure compliance and awareness of their rights and obligations.