The Ghanaian government has issued MultiChoice Ghana an ultimatum to reduce subscription prices by September 6 or face licence revocation and operational shutdown, escalating a months-long pricing dispute.
Ghanaian Communications Minister, Samuel George, delivered the stark warning during the Digital Africa Summit in Accra, declaring that the DStv/GOtv operator must comply with government demands for fairer pricing that reflects Ghana’s improving economic conditions.
“They have up to the 6th of September. If by that time there is no resolution, we will shut down the operations of MultiChoice,” George warned.
“No corporate entity is above the collective interest of the Ghanaian people,” he further stated.
The confrontation stems from the government’s request two months ago for a 30% reduction in subscription fees, citing reduced inflation and stabilizing economic conditions.
MultiChoice Ghana has reportedly resisted the directive, prompting increasingly aggressive regulatory action.
The National Communications Authority (NCA) has already imposed fines between GH¢150,000 and GH¢170,000 on MultiChoice for failing to submit mandatory pricing data required under the Electronic Communications Act. The minister confirmed that authorities are prepared to collect these outstanding penalties.
George announced that officials will conduct a final meeting with MultiChoice representatives Thursday, after which the government plans to take decisive action if no agreement is reached.
The minister framed the dispute as a matter of consumer protection and economic fairness.
“This is about fairness and accountability. Ghanaians deserve to benefit from the improving economy through affordable digital services,” he emphasized.
Ghana’s inflation rate has declined significantly from 23.8% in December 2024 to 11.5% in August 2025, while the cedi has shown increased stability. Government officials argue that these improved economic conditions should translate into lower subscription costs for consumers.
The standoff represents one of the most serious regulatory challenges facing MultiChoice’s West African operations, with potential implications for the company’s broader regional strategy.
MultiChoice operates as a dominant pay-television provider in Ghana and Nigerian markets, making any potential service disruption particularly significant for consumers who have limited alternative options for premium television content.
