Ghana’s government has taken a bold step in the ongoing battle over exorbitant DStv prices by initiating the process to suspend MultiChoice Ghana’s license if it fails to meet new pricing demands.
The announcement came from Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George, following DStv’s refusal to implement a 30% price cut requested by the government.
Under the directive, the National Communications Authority (NCA) has given MultiChoice 30 days to respond, including the opportunity to defend its pricing model or propose alternative measures.
Minister George argued the recent 40% appreciation of the cedi demands reduced prices, not further hikes, saying the current rates are unjustifiable.
Ghanaian subscribers pay around $83 for DStv’s premium packagenearly triple the cost in Nigeria (~$29) and significantly higher than South Africa (~$38).
They have 30 days to submit a response or remedy proposal. If no agreement is reached, NCA may suspend their broadcasting license potentially crippling DStv’s service in Ghana.
Without solid proof of market abuse, the move could face legal challenges under the Electronic Communications Act.
Ghana is trying to send a message: even dominant broadcasters must align pricing with economic realities.
