MultiChoice faces 14-day deadline to agree on price reductions in Ghana

Concerns over pay-TV pricing in Ghana have drawn sharp attention from the government, with the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation taking firm steps to address consumer complaints.

The Ministry and the National Communications Authority (NCA) have been engaging MultiChoice Ghana over transparency in its bouquet charges and the need for reductions to bring relief to subscribers.

Speaking at a media briefing in Accra, Minister Samuel Nartey George explained that the NCA had earlier requested a detailed breakdown of MultiChoice’s cost structure across Ghana and seven other African countries.

The company’s failure to comply led to a daily fine of GHS10,000 and a suspension notice effective 7th August 2025. With the suspension deadline set to expire on September 6, MultiChoice has now pledged to work with the government on a consultative process.

“Even though MultiChoice requested a further 30 days for the consultative process, I can only grant them 14 days as I believe that is sufficient to agree on the percentage of reduction,” the Minister announced.

He further revealed that a Stakeholder Committee has been formed, chaired by the Ministry, with representation from the NCA, MultiChoice Ghana, and MultiChoice Africa. This Committee has been tasked to deliver a new pricing structure for subscribers by September 21, 2025.

The Minister also highlighted ongoing developments in the sector, noting the pending takeover of MultiChoice Africa by Canal+ at the end of the month.

“I have held engagements with Canal+, with emphasis placed on the need to respect any pricing reduction decisions and to consider further reductions in the future, if necessary,” he said, adding that Canal+ had assured the government of its commitment to cooperate and address revenue challenges linked to grey market decoders.

The minister stresses that the intervention is guided by the same consumer protection principles that informed recent reductions in mobile data pricing and reflects the government’s resolve to ensure fairness and affordability in Ghana’s digital and broadcasting space.

By: Bawa Musah

Read also…