Minister for Communications and Digital Technology, Sam Nartey George, has unveiled a new initiative aimed at making internet access more affordable and inclusive.
Under the plan, Ghanaian internet users will receive special data bundles on five designated national holidays each year.
Announcing the move at a press briefing, Mr. George confirmed that the unique bundles will be available on Independence Day, May Day, Republic Day, Founder’s Day, and Farmers’ Day.
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This is what the Minister said during a press conference
“In the meantime, I’ve reached an agreement with all three mobile network operators to offer exclusive data packages to subscribers on these five national holidays,” he stated.
The rollout began with a successful test on Independence Day, and the next holiday bundle is set to launch on May Day, in celebration of Ghana’s workforce. The initiative aligns with broader goals to enhance digital access and affordability across the country.
This development stems from recommendations by the Data Cost Pricing Committee, established by the Minister in February.
The committee, which included representatives from telcos, consumer advocacy groups, and regulatory agencies, was tasked with creating a strategy for reducing data prices within two weeks.
He also added, “They delivered their report in just 13 days,” Mr. George noted, expressing gratitude to the committee for their swift and voluntary contribution.
“Their short-, medium-, and long-term recommendations have now been forwarded to the National Communications Authority (NCA) for implementation.”
The NCA, in collaboration with mobile network operators, is currently finalizing the rollout framework. Mr. George also shared that he has personally engaged with the CEOs of all three MNOs to ensure smooth execution.
In addition to the holiday bundles, telecom companies have pledged to introduce improved data plans tailored to tertiary students, content creators, and those working in the gig economy. These new packages are expected to go public soon, pending technical validation by the NCA.
“All three MNOs have submitted enhanced data proposals for these specific groups, and the NCA is working closely with them to finalize the technical aspects ahead of a national launch,” the Minister concluded.
