The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has made a strong commitment to ensuring that internet data in Ghana moves from being a luxury to being an essential utility for every citizen.
What’s Being Done
- The government has initiated a multi-stakeholder committee tasked with creating a roadmap to lower data prices by the end of the year. This group includes telecom companies, the National Communications Authority (NCA), and other key regulatory and consumer bodies.
- There are ongoing negotiations with major telecom providers, guiding efforts to restore or introduce affordable data bundles.
- Studies are being carried out with international bodies to benchmark Ghana’s data costs against people’s earning power — aiming to align prices more closely with what citizens can realistically afford.
What Sam George Said
- “Every Ghanaian must be able to afford data services.”
- “Let me be clear, the ministry is engaged … Our goal is to ensure that data is not a luxury but a utility, accessible and affordable to every Ghanaian.”
- He emphasized that reducing the cost of data isn’t just about lowering numbers — it’s about quality, accessibility, and fairness.
Challenges and Outlook
- The minister acknowledged that data prices have risen significantly over the past years and that fixing this issue requires careful, structured intervention.
- He stressed that while citizens want immediate relief, true and lasting change will require policy reform, regulatory adjustments, and collaboration between the government, telecom operators, and consumers.
- Still, he reassured Ghanaians that there’s a clear plan in place and urged the public to “trust the process.”
