The National Communications Authority (NCA) has assured Ghanaians that telecommunications towers and masts installed in communities and by companies do not pose health risks, stressing that they are essential for delivering reliable network coverage and communication services.
Officials from the National Communication Authority (NCA’s) Consumer Affairs Division, Mr. King Nobert Akpable, Mr. Samuel Otoo Addo and Ms. Sheila Tahiru, made this known during an appearance on the Ade Akyi Abia programme, hosted by Mohammed Zunurene.
Speaking during the interview, Mr. Akpable explained that the National Communications Authority is the statutory regulator established by an Act of Parliament to license and regulate electronic communications, broadcasting and telecommunications services across Ghana.
He said the NCA is responsible for licensing radio and television stations, including GBC, as well as telecommunications operators such as MTN, Telecel and AT.
According to him, the Authority also plays a critical role in ensuring communication systems used within the aviation sector operate efficiently, enabling pilots to communicate safely with air traffic controllers.
Mr. Akpable described telecommunications towers and masts as the backbone of modern communication, noting that they transmit signals that make radio broadcasts, television transmissions, phone calls and internet services possible.
“As we speak on radio, our voices reach listeners through transmitters and antennas mounted on these towers. The same principle applies to mobile phone networks, where masts enable seamless communication across the country,” he explained.
Addressing concerns about the installation of telecom towers, he noted that no company is allowed to erect a mast without obtaining the required approvals. He said the process involves several regulatory institutions, including the NCA, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the District Assembly, the Ghana Standards Authority, the Ghana National Fire Service, Physical Planning authorities and several other relevant agencies.
According to him, community engagement is also a key part of the approval process, with residents consulted before any installation is carried out.
He further explained that companies seeking to install telecommunications infrastructure must first obtain the necessary licences and regulatory clearance before construction begins.
Comprehensive technical, environmental and safety assessments are conducted to ensure all requirements are met.
Mr. Akpable said the height of a telecommunications mast depends on the terrain and surrounding environment. In some locations, a 20-metre mast may be sufficient, while low-lying areas may require structures of up to 100 metres to ensure effective network coverage.
He cautioned that installing masts at inappropriate heights could interfere with communication quality and aviation safety, particularly where aviation warning lights are required to guide aircraft during night operations.
Touching on public concerns over health, Mr. Akpable dismissed claims that living near telecommunications towers causes cancer, infertility, memory loss or other serious illnesses.
“There is no scientific evidence proving that living close to a telecommunications mast exposes people to such health conditions.
These towers are installed to improve communication services and provide stronger network coverage for communities,” he said.
He, however, advised the public to adopt healthier digital habits, particularly by reducing prolonged screen exposure and activating night mode on mobile devices to help minimise eye strain.
Mr. Akpable concluded by reaffirming the NCA’s commitment to public education through community outreach programmes and media engagements, including collaborations with Ghana Broadcasting Cooperation (GBC )and other platforms, to raise awareness about the importance of telecommunications infrastructure and to address misconceptions surrounding telecom towers and masts.