Ghana Shippers’ Authority Pays Working Visit to the NCA

Accra, 20^th May, 2026:  The Ghana Shippers’ Authority has paid a working visit to the National Communications Authority (NCA) as part of efforts at strengthening institutional collaboration and gaining deeper insight into the Authority’s processes for the inspection and clearance of imported communications equipment.

Rev. Ing. Edmund Y. Fianko welcoming the delegation

The visit provided the NCA with the opportunity to brief the delegation on the regulatory procedures governing the importation of communications equipment into Ghana. The Authority explained that importers are required to apply through the approved system, after which the NCA verifies whether the applicant is duly licensed and in good standing.

According to the Director General of the NCA, Rev. Ing. Edmund Y. Fianko, the process is important because some communications equipment may be suitable for use in other countries but may not be appropriate for Ghana’s frequency environment. Such equipment, if allowed into the country without proper inspection, could interfere with existing communications services.

He further explained that the NCA does not maintain a permanent presence of officers at the ports. Rather, officers are assigned to conduct inspections as and when communications equipment is declared. “This approach enables the NCA to effectively carry out its regulatory oversight responsibilities while ensuring that the inspection process remains structured, transparent and efficient,” he said.

A cross-section of the delegation at the meeting

In a brief presentation, the NCA indicated that where imported equipment meets the required standards, it is certified for release. However, where issues are identified, the equipment may be withheld, moved into the custody of the Authority, or handled in accordance with the relevant regulatory procedures.

The NCA further noted that even where an importer is licensed, imported communications equipment must still be inspected to ensure that it meets Ghana’s technical, regulatory and frequency requirements.

The Authority also highlighted the role of its regional offices, particularly in areas with border posts, in supporting regulatory work and monitoring the movement of communications equipment into the country.

The meeting ended with an assurance that the relevant technical and regulatory teams of the NCA would further engage the Ghana Shippers Authority in a more in-depth session on the Authority’s port inspection processes.

Both institutions expressed their commitment to continued collaboration in support of efficient trade facilitation, regulatory compliance and the protection of Ghana’s communications ecosystem.

The four-member delegation from the Ghana Shippers’ Authority was led by Madam Adelaide Addo and Mr. Frank Ankomah, both Senior Shipper Services and Trade Facilitation Officers. With them were Mr. Nathaniel Nartey and Mr. Kofi Poku Sampene.

A group picture of Management staff of the NCA and the delegation