Multichoice Ghana receives suspension notice from NCA, given 30-day deadline for response

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has formally notified Multichoice Ghana Limited of its intention to suspend the company’s license to operate its Subscription Management Service for Satellite Television Broadcasting (Pay TV Direct-to-Home Bouquet).

Following the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George’s instruction, the NCA has been directed to suspend Multichoice Ghana’s license by August 8, 2025, after the company declined to reduce DStv subscription fees by 30%.

The NCA issued a statement on Thursday, August 7, 2025, providing Multichoice Ghana with a 30-day ultimatum to submit a written statement outlining its objections to the suspension or propose a remedial action.

As stated by the NCA, “Multichoice Ghana has thirty (30) days to present its views or provide remedial action and submit a written statement of its objections to the suspension of the authorisation.”

The NCA’s regulatory action is in response to the company’s pricing model, deemed “inimical to the public interest”. The suspension of authorisation is pursuant to Section 13 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).

Samuel Nartey George, Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, had earlier requested a 30% reduction in DStv subscription fees from Multichoice Ghana, citing the Cedi’s appreciation against the dollar and other trading currencies.

In response to the Minister’s request, DStv declined to reduce subscription prices, citing the Cedi’s depreciation over the past eight years as the reason why a 30% price reduction is not feasible.

Sam George subsequently directed the NCA to suspend Multichoice Ghana’s license by Thursday, August 7, 2025, should the company fail to adjust its pricing packages.

In a statement released on Sunday, August 3, Multichoice and DStv responded to the Minister, stating that it is “not tenable” to reduce DStv subscription fees in the manner proposed.

While expressing concern over the Minister’s remarks, MultiChoice emphasized its commitment to open and good-faith discussions with the Minister and the NCA to address pricing concerns.

The company noted that the Minister’s stance is regrettable, despite their ongoing efforts to engage in candid discussions on this matter. Furthermore, MultiChoice revealed that it has submitted a proposal to the Minister and the NCA outlining an alternative path forward.