MTN Ghana’s 2024 Annual Report shows a 53.8% surge in data revenue, reaching GHS9.0 billion, driven by network enhancements, 4G expansion, and tailored data packages. However, rising data costs have sparked public outcry, prompting government intervention.
Data Growth and Consumer Dependence
MTN’s active data subscriber base grew 13.7%, hitting 17.5 million users, while monthly data consumption per user rose 19.0% to 10.2GB. This surge reflects a deeper reliance on mobile data for communication, business, and entertainment.
The 35.3% increase in data traffic and the rise of data revenue’s contribution to total service revenue from 43.9% to 50.2% underscore MTN’s strategic focus on data-led growth.
Network Expansion and Profitability
MTN’s 4G-plus network expansion and innovative data plans, including family, business, and non-expiry packages, played a key role in revenue growth. Targeted promotions and state-of-the-art infrastructure investments further strengthened the company’s dominance in Ghana’s data market.
Consumer Complaints and Government Action
Despite these gains, public dissatisfaction over rising data costs has intensified, with many users citing limited affordability. The backlash has prompted Ghana’s Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George to establish an inter-agency committee to explore strategies for reducing data prices while ensuring sustainable sector growth. The committee will examine ways to make internet and mobile data more affordable, particularly for businesses and consumers. While reducing prices, the strategy will also focus on maintaining profitability and investment incentives for telecom operators.
The initiative aligns with Ghana’s broader digital transformation agenda, aiming to make internet services more accessible to individuals and businesses nationwide. This move comes as Ghanaians continue to raise concerns over high data costs, which affect education, business productivity, and innovation. The outcome of this initiative could lead to improved competitiveness in the telecom industry, enhanced internet penetration, and a boost in economic activities reliant on digital connectivity.
The committee is expected to work closely with telecom operators, regulatory bodies, and consumer advocacy groups to develop practical solutions for long-term industry growth.
Balancing Growth and Affordability
As MTN Ghana solidifies its position as the leading telecom provider, it faces a critical balancing act, maintaining strong revenue growth while addressing consumer concerns over pricing. With government oversight increasing, the telecom giant must navigate regulatory scrutiny and evolving consumer demands to sustain long-term market leadership.
