The National Communications Authority (NCA) says as many as 21,000 mobile phone subscribers successfully ported their mobile numbers as at Sunday, 31st July, 2011, 25 days after MNP took effect in Ghana. A report by the NCA said its analysis of data for the month of July showed that of the porting requests completed:

• 10% were completed in 15 minutes or less
• 23% were completed between 15 minutes and 1 hour
• 34% were completed between 1 and 4 hours
• 31% were completed between 4 and 24 hours
• 2% were completed in more than 24 hours

“The fastest port recorded so far in Ghana took place in a mere 1 minute, 10 seconds. The average port took place in 5 hours, 21 minutes from start to finish.” The report said the performance indicates that the system is operating smoothly. “The relatively few difficulties that occurred at inception stemmed from human error or misunderstanding of the processes involved. Where those problems arose within the mobile service providers’ organizations, NCA has been monitoring diligently and promoting prompt remedial action…”. The NCA reiterated steps necessary for a subscriber to port to another operator to include:

1. Number portability means you will leave your current mobile service provider and join a new provider. The MNP system will move your phone number from your old service provider to the new provider. Your account at your old service provider will be closed.
2. To start the process, you must visit a shop or agent for the network you wish to join. They will guide you through the process, including completing and signing the porting request form, sending a free validation text message, and providing a Chip for your new network.
3. For a number to qualify to be moved, that number must have been on the existing network for at least 30 days, so do not try to move if you have just acquired a new Chip or you have recently moved.
4. If you have any questions or concerns about the porting process or about your account at your new provider, or if something unexpected occurs during or after the porting process, your new service provider is obliged to resolve these issues.

The NCA said it is encouraged by the progress so far and expressed its appreciation to all parties who have worked diligently to make MNP a success.