Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, has called on MultiChoice Ghana to reduce DSTV subscription fees by 30%, citing the Ghanaian cedi’s recent recovery and mounting public frustration over high prices.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement session in Accra, the Minister emphasized that while the cedi has gained considerable strength in recent months appreciating by about 30% against major foreign currencies DSTV subscription costs have remained unchanged. According to him, this disconnect is placing unnecessary financial strain on ordinary Ghanaians.
“It’s only fair that when the cedi depreciates, prices go up but when the cedi gains, those same prices must reflect the change,” Sam George said. He gave MultiChoice until July 21 to present a plan to review its pricing structure, adding that the government is open to dialogue but expects a clear and timely response.
Beyond pricing, the Minister raised other concerns, including the rise of illegal DSTV boxes imported from other countries, which he said are undercutting legitimate services and hurting tax revenue. He urged MultiChoice to work more closely with the government to clamp down on piracy and improve local content offerings.
He also hinted at a forthcoming broadcasting bill aimed at increasing Ghanaian content on pay-TV platforms. “It’s time we invested more in telling our own stories,” he said.
MultiChoice Ghana has yet to issue a formal response but has indicated its willingness to engage stakeholders and review customer feedback.
The debate now shifts to how quickly, and by how much, DSTV will adjust to the changing economic environment.
