MultiChoice accepts DStv price reduction, sets up pricing committee – Sam George

The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Sam Nartey George, has announced that a joint committee has been established between the government and MultiChoice Ghana to decide on a reduction in DStv subscription prices.

The decision follows weeks of standoff between the ministry and the pay-TV operator, subsequent to regulators’ demand for a 30% reduction in subscription fees.

Earlier this month, the ministry directed MultiChoice to pay a daily statutory fine of GH¢10,000 for failing to provide required pricing data under the Electronic Communications Act (ECA).

It also warned that the company risks suspension of its operating licence if prices are not reduced by September 6, 2025. At a press conference in Accra on Friday, September 5, 2025, the minister confirmed that the committee had been formed at MultiChoice’s request to agree on the appropriate level of reduction.

“We have taken an immediate step to put together a committee comprising representatives from the ministry, the regulator, NCA, Multichoice Ghana, and Multichoice Africa. I will personally chair the committee,” he said.

The government rejected MultiChoice’s request for a 30-day extension to determine the level of reduction, insisting on a shorter timeframe instead.

To clarify, they have acknowledged the necessity of a reduction and are now seeking discussions on the extent of the decrease. In my opinion, as a minister, a 30-day timeframe is unnecessary.

A period of fourteen days, inclusive of weekends, is sufficient for reaching a decision.

The committee is tasked with presenting a suitable price reduction strategy to the Ghanaian populace.