Accra, Ghana, August 1, 2025 – Ghana’s Minister of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel George, has stated that he would direct the National Communications Authority (NCA) to revoke the broadcasting license of popular satellite television service DSTV for failing to reduce subscription prices.
In a public address at a Government Accountability Series press briefing, the minister threatened to suspend DSTV’s operating license by August 7 unless the company slashes its subscription prices
“My fidelity lies with the Ghanaian people,” he declared. “They have been cheated for years, and it is time we put an end to that.”
Mr. George dismissed the claim of MultiChoice (parent company of DSTV) that a 200% depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi over the past eight years justifies its current rates.
The minister’s demand follows months of public outcry over DSTV’s pricing, which many subscribers argue is out of step with Ghana’s economic realities.
Hurdles for DSTV
DSTV, owned by South Africa-based MultiChoice, is a dominant player in Ghana’s pay-TV market, offering packages ranging from the budget-friendly (with over 40 channels) to the premium package, boasting more than 150 channels, including exclusive English Premier League broadcasts.
Over the years, DSTV has been steadily increasing the price of its subscription packages, citing economic issues.
In March, the company announced a 15% increase across all packages, the third adjustment in less than two years, drawing sharp criticism from consumer rights groups like CUTS International for providing inadequate notice.
“Short notices erode trust and burden consumers,” a CUTS spokesperson said at the time.
The premium package, priced at 850 Ghanaian cedis (approximately $78.70) per month as of July, has become a lightning rod for criticism, with subscribers arguing that the cost is unaffordable for many households.
Pressure Across The Continent
MultiChoice faces a huge dilemma of trying to maintain profitability in Africa while addressing regulatory and consumer demands.
In June, the company recorded a loss of 1.2 million subscribers across the African region.
In Nigeria, the company was ordered to halt its price hike pending an investigation into the company’s proposed tariff adjustment earlier in March.
Recently, the company had a proposal for acquisition by the French pay-TV giant Canal+ approved by South Africa’s Competition Tribunal.
In Ghana, MultiChoice has yet to publicly respond to the Ministry of Communication’s August 7 ultimatum. It remains to be seen if the company will oblige with a price reduction or risk revocation of its license.
