Ghana’s Parliamentary Select Committee on Communications has issued a stern ultimatum to satellite TV giant MultiChoice Ghana, operators of DStv, to significantly reduce its subscription fees or risk having its license suspended by August 7, 2025.

The warning came from Sam Nartey George, Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram and ranking member of the committee. He described the current pricing model as exploitative, especially amid Ghana’s ongoing economic challenges.

“DStv Pricing in Ghana is Unacceptable” – Sam George

During a press engagement following the committee’s meeting, Sam George criticized MultiChoice for failing to comply with previous calls to review their pricing system in Ghana:

“We have told DStv and MultiChoice Ghana that if by the 7th of August they have not presented a new tariff regime, we will recommend to the NCA (National Communications Authority) to suspend their license,” he stated firmly.

According to him, DStv charges Ghanaians more for the same services compared to subscribers in other African countries, including Nigeria and South Africa. He noted that while Ghanaian subscribers pay more, they often receive fewer channels and less content diversity.

Parliament’s Position: Consumer Protection First

The Parliamentary Committee emphasized its constitutional role in protecting consumers against unfair trade practices. George stressed that DStv must justify its high prices with corresponding value. He further called on the National Communications Authority (NCA) to enforce price regulation if MultiChoice fails to act:

“You cannot come and exploit Ghanaians because we don’t have a local competitor.”

He also hinted at engaging the Ministry of Communications and the NCA to explore introducing local satellite TV alternatives that can offer competitive pricing and quality content.

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How Ghana Compares to Other Countries

Data from consumer watchdogs and past media analyses indicate that:

• In Nigeria, DStv packages range from ₦2,500 to ₦24,500 (₵39–₵382).

• In South Africa, basic access costs about R99 (₵70).

• Meanwhile, Ghanaian customers pay up to ₵450 per month for premium services, often with fewer exclusive channels.

These discrepancies have sparked growing resentment among Ghanaians, especially during the ongoing economic hardship marked by high inflation, rising utility bills, and currency depreciation.

MultiChoice’s Silence and Potential Repercussions

As of the time of writing, MultiChoice Ghana has not issued an official statement in response to the latest parliamentary warning. However, if the company fails to comply by the August 7 deadline, the NCA may suspend or revoke its license, affecting thousands of subscribers across Ghana.

Industry experts warn that such a move could disrupt access to major international channels like SuperSport, BBC, CNN, and Africa Magic, unless alternative providers step in quickly.

What’s Next?

Parliament’s Communications Committee is expected to:

• Review DStv’s pricing structure in detail.

• Recommend penalties if MultiChoice refuses to adjust its rates.

• Push for policy frameworks that support local content platforms.

Sam George concluded by stating that this action is part of a larger agenda to curb digital exploitation and empower local businesses in the tech and broadcasting sector.