Explain High Prices or Face Suspension-Gov’t Warns DStv Operators

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has officially informed MultiChoice Ghana Limited that it plans to suspend the company’s authorisation to operate its pay-TV service, DStv, in Ghana due to high and unfair subscription fees.

In a press statement released on Thursday, August 7,2025 by the NCA stated that it is acting under Section 13 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775). This section gives the Authority the power to suspend or revoke licences if a service is considered harmful to the public interest.

MultiChoice Ghana has been given 30 days to respond to the notice. During this period, the company can either defend its pricing, suggest a solution, or officially object to the planned suspension. If no satisfactory action is taken within this time, the suspension could take effect.

“By this notice, MultiChoice Ghana has thirty (30) days within which the company may present its views, or provide remedial action, and submit a written statement of its objections to the suspension of the authorisation,” the NCA’s statement said.

The NCA’s move follows a directive from Ghana’s Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Mr. Samuel Nartey George. The Minister has been very vocal about the high cost of DStv services in Ghana and has accused MultiChoice of taking advantage of consumers during tough economic times.

According to the Minister, MultiChoice Ghana’s pricing model is not only unfair but also shows no sensitivity to the struggles of ordinary Ghanaians. He believes the company is overcharging customers and has promised to take strong regulatory action if things don’t change.

MultiChoice Ghana, however, disagrees. Firing back through a statement released on Sunday, August 3, 2025, the company described the Minister’s action as “regrettable.”

They argued that reducing prices further would not be possible under current market conditions, pointing to high operating costs and economic challenges they also face.

But the Minister was not satisfied with this explanation. He responded by saying that the company’s position does not take into account the economic hardship Ghanaians are going through. He insists that MultiChoice must adjust its prices to make DStv more affordable for the average person.

This move by the government has drawn wide attention and is seen as a bold step toward protecting consumers. It is also the first time in recent years that a major satellite TV provider in Ghana faces the possibility of being suspended over pricing issues.

Public frustration with DStv pricing has been growing for some time. Many customers have complained about frequent price hikes, lack of flexibility, and poor value for money. Some members of Parliament, especially from the Minority side, have called for calm and encouraged dialogue between the Ministry, the NCA, and MultiChoice Ghana. They believe a peaceful, diplomatic solution is still possible.

Despite this, the Minister has made it clear that the regulatory process will continue, and necessary steps will be taken to ensure fairness in the broadcasting industry.

 

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NCA NOTIFIES MULTICHOICE GHANA OF ITS INTENTION TO SUSPEND AUTHORISATION

Accra, 7th August, 2025.

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has served Multichoice Ghana Limited with a notice of its intention to suspend the company’s Subscription Management Service for a Satellite Television Broadcasting (Pay TV Direct-toHome Bouquet) Authorisation pursuant to Section 13 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).

This regulatory action is subsequent upon the company’s pricing model which is deemed inimical to the public interest.

By this notice, Multichoice Ghana has thirty (30) days within which the company may present its views, or provide remedial action, and submit a written statement of its objections to the suspension of the authorisation.

Issued by the National Communications Authority