The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), inaugurated the Inter-Agency Data Pricing Committee on Friday, February 14, 2025, tasking them with evaluating current pricing models and recommending solutions to reduce data costs.
The committee has been given 14 working days to create a roadmap that will make data more affordable and accessible for all Ghanaians.
The committee includes representatives from the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Energy, the National Communications Authority (NCA), the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), the Chamber of Telecommunications, the National Union of Ghana Students, the Ghana Bloggers Association, the Ghana Payment & Fintech Association, and the Association of Content Creators.
Sam George will personally chair the working group. The Minister aims to publicize the agreements reached to ensure tangible relief for Ghanaians as part of the President Mahama’s RESET agenda.
The inclusion of representatives from the energy sector is particularly significant, as power costs reportedly account for about 80% of the expenses of Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). Other factors contributing to high data prices include the fluctuating cedi-dollar exchange rate and limited market competition.
The Minister has suggested two potential approaches: lowering prices or increasing data allowances for the same cost. He expressed optimism that significant progress on data offerings will be achieved before the end of the year.