For several months, the Ghanaian government, through its Minister of Communications, Digital Technologies, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has been criticizing MultiChoice, the operator of the DStv television package, for charging what it considers to be excessive prices for its pay-TV services in Ghana compared to those charged in other African countries, particularly Nigeria ($83 in Ghana compared to $29 in Nigeria for the premium package).
The minister therefore demanded that MultiChoice provide explanations for its rates and submit detailed data on package prices, applicable taxes, and comparisons with at least six other countries on the continent.
As MultiChoice failed to provide the requested pricing information within the legal timeframe stipulated by the Electronic Communications Act, the authorities imposed a daily fine of GHC 10,000 (approximately $915) starting on August 15, 2025.
In addition to the fine, the government has threatened to suspend MultiChoice's operating license if prices are not reduced by September 6, 2025. The regulator, the National Communications Authority (NCA), considers MultiChoice's pricing model to be contrary to the public interest and expects the operator to propose corrective measures or submit its objections within a legal period of 30 days.
These tensions reflect the Ghanaian authorities' desire to protect consumers from the pricing policies of large international groups, which are considered abusive or opaque. Multichoice faced similar complaints in Nigeria in March 2025.
but did not lower its rates despite constant pressure from local authorities.