Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Sam Nartey George, has outlined a clear roadmap to reduce mobile data costs in Ghana, stressing the need for evidence-based policy execution over reactionary measures.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Mr George acknowledged the economic burden that current data prices place on Ghanaians, despite some reports suggesting Ghana’s mobile data is relatively affordable compared to other African countries.
“We’re aware that while data may seem affordable regionally, the reality is different when you compare it to what the average Ghanaian earns,” he said.
Currently, 1GB of data costs approximately GHS17 ($1.37)—almost equivalent to the daily minimum wage of GHS19.97 ($1.61)—a situation that the minister described as unsustainable for inclusive digital access.
The minister disclosed that a 23-member inter-agency data pricing committee was constituted to conduct an in-depth review of pricing strategies. After two weeks of deliberation, the committee produced a roadmap which is now guiding government actions.
Mr George explained that unlike previous efforts that faltered due to poor implementation, this plan is being carefully phased to ensure affordability does not come at the cost of service quality.
“If you want me to move from network A because it’s now more expensive, is network B ready to deliver the same quality? That’s the question,” he said, highlighting the need for all networks to invest in infrastructure improvements concurrently.
The government’s strategy is anchored on three pillars: price, quality, and value. Mr George emphasised that price reductions must come with improved value.
“Value means that if you previously got 100GB for a certain price, you should be able to get more for the same amount in the future,” he noted.
He assured the public that Ghanaians can expect to receive more gigabytes for less in the near future as telcos are encouraged to adjust offerings.
To ensure transparency and international benchmarking, a team from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is currently in Ghana conducting an independent assessment of the country’s data pricing framework.
Mr George emphasised that government policy would be guided by “hard-core data and evidence”, not sentiment.
“We want to make sure our approach is grounded in facts and international standards so that any changes are both fair and sustainable,” he stated.
The Communications Ministry says the ultimate goal is to bridge the digital divide by making high-speed internet more accessible to every Ghanaian, regardless of income or location.
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