Government Urges Multichoice Ghana to Cut DSTV Subscription Prices by 30% Amid Cedi Appreciation
The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), has called on Multichoice Ghana to implement a 30% reduction in DSTV subscription prices, citing the significant appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi and mounting public dissatisfaction with current pricing and content offerings.
Speaking during a meeting with a delegation from DSTV, led by Dr. Keabetswe Modimoeng, Group Executive for Regulatory and Corporate Affairs, Hon. Nartey George stressed that the government is mandated to respond to the concerns of Ghanaians, who have expressed growing frustration over high subscription fees that have remained unchanged despite improvements in macroeconomic conditions.
“Over the past five months, the cedi has appreciated by about 30%, yet DSTV prices have not reflected this positive economic shift. Consumers expect to benefit directly from this improvement,” the Minister stated.
He urged Multichoice to consider a corresponding 30% reduction in subscription prices to pass on the gains of the cedi’s appreciation to subscribers, noting that while the company has introduced promotional packages, consumers prefer a permanent price cut over temporary discounts.
The Minister further highlighted consumer feedback indicating dissatisfaction with DSTV’s content, which many described as outdated apart from Premier League football, calling into question the value proposition of current pricing.
Multichoice Ghana has been given until July 21 to formally respond to the government’s request with a concrete proposal, allowing time for further engagement before the end of the month.
Hon. Nartey George also raised concerns about piracy and regulatory compliance, particularly the growing challenge of cross-border piracy through the use of unauthorized DSTV boxes, which undermines local service providers and reduces government revenue.
In addition, the Minister advocated for stronger local content representation on broadcasting platforms, arguing that increased local content will create employment opportunities and generate higher revenues for Ghana’s creative industry. He revealed that government is working on a new broadcasting bill aimed at progressively raising local content requirements.
Responding to the Minister’s call, Dr. Modimoeng acknowledged the concerns raised and welcomed the dialogue, affirming Multichoice’s commitment to balancing public interest with business sustainability. He also reiterated the company’s resolve to intensify anti-piracy efforts and provide regular updates on progress made.
The meeting underscored the government’s commitment to regulatory discipline, consumer protection, and the advancement of local content in Ghana’s broadcasting sector.
