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Ghana threatens DSTV shutdown over pricing

ACCRA – Ghana’s Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has issued a deadline to DSTV, warning that its broadcasting licence will be suspended by 7 August 2025 if the pay-TV company fails to reduce its subscription prices by 30 per cent.

Speaking at a government press conference in Accra on Thursday, George said DSTV’s current pricing in Ghana is unjustified compared to what subscribers in other countries, including Nigeria, are paying for similar packages.

He said Ghanaians are being charged the equivalent of USD 83 for the premium bouquet, while the same content is being offered in Nigeria for just USD 29. He described the pricing gap as unfair and exploitative.

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The minister revealed that his office had written to DSTV’s parent company, MultiChoice, requesting the 30 per cent reduction by 21 July. The company responded with a nine-page letter defending its pricing, citing the 240 per cent depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi over the past eight years and arguing that recent currency appreciation was not sustainable.

George said he was unconvinced by their argument and has since instructed the National Communications Authority to prepare to revoke the broadcaster’s licence if there is no compliance by the deadline.

He added that the government is committed to ensuring fair pricing and equitable access to digital services across Ghana, warning that the days of overcharging local consumers were over.

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