A multifaceted policy strategy designed to make internet access more affordable has been outlined by Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George. The Minister detailed ongoing regulatory and infrastructure reforms in the telecommunications sector that are aimed at both immediate and long-term cost drivers in the communication sector.
While clarifying that the government cannot directly set data prices in a liberalised market, Sam George highlighted the active use of policy instruments to influence pricing structures. Central to this effort is the establishment of a Data Pricing Committee, which was tasked with developing a comprehensive roadmap within 14 days—a mandate it fulfilled ahead of schedule.
“The Committee, comprising stakeholders including Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and the regulator, presented their report in just 13 days. It outlines a framework of short-, medium-, and long-term interventions necessary to bring data costs down,” the Minister stated.
The committee’s recommendations, now under review by the National Communications Authority (NCA), form the backbone of a broader strategy aimed at delivering more inclusive, cost-effective internet access. Minister George confirmed that engagements have already begun with MNO CEOs to explore the rollout of specialised data packages for students, content creators, and gig economy workers—segments of the population most affected by data pricing.
Specialised Data Bundles on the Horizon
Among the key initiatives is the proposal for tailored data plans that offer cheaper rates per megabyte for students and freelancers. These packages are expected to provide relief for those who rely heavily on mobile data for education and income-generating activities.
“Policy tools like spectrum allocation and tech neutrality are being used as levers in our negotiations with industry players. We’ve made it clear that we expect to see more affordable and targeted data bundles on the market soon,” George explained.
The regulator is currently finalising the technical parameters for these packages, which the minister assured would be rolled out in phases starting shortly.
Equiano Subsea Cable and Infrastructure Expansion
In a bid to significantly increase the country’s bandwidth and drive down wholesale data costs, the Ministry is also in advanced talks with Google regarding the Equiano subsea cable, a high-capacity infrastructure project initially intended to land in Ghana but rerouted through Togo due to mismanagement by the previous administration.
“Due to licensing conflicts under the past government, Ghana lost the first-mover advantage. It will now cost an estimated $50 million to create a secondary landing point in Accra,” said George. “Nonetheless, we are working closely with Google to ensure Ghana is included in the second phase of the Equiano project.”
He stressed that increased bandwidth will positively affect market dynamics by boosting supply and creating downward pressure on data prices.
Addressing Cost Drivers: Energy Tariffs and Taxation
Beyond bandwidth and policy incentives, the Minister also identified structural cost factors particularly electricity pricing and tax burdens as major contributors to high telecom prices. To tackle these, the Ministry is advocating for the introduction of a dedicated telecom electricity tariff, similar to those used in the mining and manufacturing sectors.
“Telecom companies consume significant power, yet they pay the same rates as smaller businesses. A sector-specific tariff will ease operational costs and translate into more affordable consumer prices,” he explained.
In parallel, the Ministry is in talks with the Finance Ministry to introduce VAT rationalisation measures and eliminate instances of double taxation within the telecom ecosystem. These changes, if implemented, are expected to positively impact both voice and data pricing.
While Minister George acknowledged that these policy shifts won’t yield overnight results, he projected that initial reductions in data prices could begin within months, with more substantial relief expected by year-end or early 2026.
“We are laying the groundwork for sustainable affordability. Through a mix of regulatory reform, strategic infrastructure investment, and targeted pricing initiatives, we’re building a digital economy that works for everyone,” he concluded.
With mounting public demand for cheaper data and an increasingly digital-dependent economy, the government’s approach may offer a practical path toward inclusive connectivity and long-term digital transformation in Ghana.
