01/08/2025
Communications Minister Threatens DSTV with License Suspension Over Pricing Disparities
Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations has issued a stern ultimatum to MultiChoice, threatening to suspend DSTV’s broadcasting license if the company fails to reduce its pricing by August 7, 2025.
The dispute centers on significant price discrepancies between Ghana and other African markets. While DSTV charges Ghanaian consumers approximately $83 for its premium bouquet, the same package is available in Nigeria for just $29.
Responding to a nine-page letter from MultiChoice justifying their pricing, today during Government Accountability Series, the Minister argued that the Ghanaian people have been systematically exploited. MultiChoice claimed the Ghanaian Cedi had depreciated by 240% over eight years, a justification the Minister roundly rejected.
Notably, the Minister pointed out that despite MultiChoice’s arguments, the Nigerian market—where the Naira has depreciated by 409%—still receives significantly lower pricing.
The ultimatum is clear: According to the Minister, MultiChoice must either match its Nigerian pricing in Ghana or face a complete suspension of its broadcasting license, marking a potentially landmark moment in Ghana’s media regulation.
DStv