Ghana’s Minister of Communications, Sam George, has revealed that MultiChoice Ghana has finally agreed to cut subscription fees following sustained pressure from the government.
Speaking at a press briefing on Friday, September 5, George confirmed that the decision was reached after weeks of tense negotiations and only after the pay-TV company provided long-demanded pricing data.
According to the Minister, the detailed report submitted by MultiChoice included bouquet pricing, tax breakdowns, and comparisons with rates in six other African countries.
He stressed that this information was essential for a fair, evidence-based discussion on adjusting fees.
How the standoff began
Back in early August 2025, authorities had issued a tough ultimatum to MultiChoice Ghana: slash DStv prices by 30% before August 7 or risk suspension of its broadcasting license. The order also came with a daily penalty of GHC 10,000 for non-compliance.
Government officials argued that Ghanaian subscribers were being overcharged compared to other African markets, despite the cedi’s exceptional performance.
The 15% subscription hike imposed in April was seen as unjustified since the local currency had appreciated by 40% against the U.S. dollar, making it one of the strongest globally this year.
George highlighted the disparity, noting that Ghanaians pay $83 for the premium bouquet, while Nigerians pay just $29.
MultiChoice, however, initially dismissed the directive, insisting that its pricing model was already fair and sustainable given current economic realities.
The company later offered to freeze existing rates and suspend the repatriation of earnings to its headquarters, but the Minister flatly rejected the proposal, demanding actual reductions.
Committee set to review prices
George announced that MultiChoice’s eventual submission of pricing data enabled the creation of a multi-stakeholder review body.
The committee, which he will personally chair, will include representatives from the Ministry of Communication, the National Communications Authority, MultiChoice Ghana, and MultiChoice Africa. It has been tasked with designing a new pricing structure by September 21.
“We’ve taken the decision to immediately establish a stakeholder committee comprising representatives from the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation. The regulator, the NCA, MultiChoice Ghana and MultiChoice Africa. I will personally chair the committee,” George explained.
Although MultiChoice requested a 30-day period to finalize the percentage of the cut, the Minister insisted that the matter must be resolved swiftly.
“MultiChoice has requested a 30-day window for the committee to arrive at what percentage of reduction will be achieved. So let’s be clear, they have finally accepted that there will be a reduction. Now they want us to discuss the level of reduction. I believe, as Minister, that we do not need 30 days. 14 days is enough for us to reach this decision, inclusive of weekends,” he said.
Fines to be enforced
The Minister further disclosed that penalties attached to the earlier ultimatum would not be waived. So far, accumulated fines amount to roughly GHC 150,000, which George confirmed will be collected in full.