Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has inaugurated a 23-member Inter-Agency Data Pricing Committee in Accra to develop a strategy for reducing data costs.
Comprising key stakeholders from the digital sector, the committee is tasked with assessing existing pricing structures and proposing measures to make data services more competitive and affordable, thereby enhancing digital inclusion and national development.
The committee has been given until March 6, 2025, to finalize and submit its report to the minister.
Speaking at the inauguration, Minister George emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring transparency in data pricing and bridging the digital divide.
“The industry players are businessmen, but my primary responsibility is to the Ghanaian people. This technical committee will review data pricing to ensure fairness and affordability,” he stated.
He noted that in January 2024, a Mobile Network Operator (MNO) proposed a 10% reduction in data costs to the National Communication Authority, but the ministry did not respond, leaving the offer pending for a year.
The minister stressed the need for a comprehensive review of all data bundle offerings across networks rather than considering isolated proposals. He highlighted the potential benefits of lower data costs, particularly for young Ghanaians relying on affordable internet access for remote work and freelance opportunities.
Describing the initiative as a national service duty, he urged all industry players to collaborate in ensuring value for money.
Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications CEO, Ken Ashigbey, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a necessary step toward fairer data pricing. He acknowledged the complexities involved in determining data costs and pledged to support the committee’s work.
National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) President, Daniel Oppong Kyeremeh, praised the minister for including student representatives in the discussions. He noted that high data costs have been a major concern for students, particularly during online learning and research, and expressed confidence in the committee’s ability to deliver fair pricing solutions.
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