NCA Initiates Consultation Process to Address Mobile Data Pricing Issues
The National Communications Authority (NCA) of Ghana has initiated consultations with stakeholders to address rising mobile data prices following a vigorous social media campaign by Ghanaians.
Dr. Joe Anokye, the Director-General of the NCA, clarified in an interview on Citi Eyewitness News that the NCA’s role is not to set prices but to review and approve them as submitted by telecom companies
He noted that no new prices have been submitted since November 2023.
Dr. Anokye explained that MTN Ghana, which controls over 80% of the mobile data market, was designated as a Significant Market Power (SMP) to prevent a monopoly and protect consumer choice.
Despite criticisms, he asserted that MTN’s prices are not the highest but fall between those of Telecel and AT Ghana.
According to Dr Anokye, the NCA has implemented measures to ensure fair competition, such as asymmetrical interconnect rates, national roaming policies, and technology neutrality.
These initiatives, he noted, are aimed at supporting smaller telcos and encouraging competition.
Dr. Anokye emphasized that the NCA’s actions are intended to safeguard long-term consumer interests rather than address short-term concerns.
The ongoing consultations are expected to gather input on balancing market competition with consumer affordability, as the NCA seeks solutions to mitigate rising data costs while preventing market monopolization.
