Government Gives MultiChoice 14 Days to Slash DStv Prices or Face Sanctions

MultiChoice Ghana, operators of DStv, has been granted a 14-day ultimatum to negotiate and agree on subscription price reductions as the regulatory suspension deadline of September 6, 2025, approaches.

The Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, announced the decision in Accra on Friday, September 5, 2025. He revealed that MultiChoice had finally shown willingness to enter a consultative process with the ministry and the National Communications Authority (NCA) over pricing concerns.

“Ahead of the expiration of the suspension notice tomorrow, MultiChoice yesterday reached out to the Ministry and the regulator, indicating a willingness to comply and address the pricing concerns through a consultative process, similar to what was adopted with telecom operators during the data pricing reduction exercise,” the minister stated.

To facilitate the negotiations, a stakeholder committee has been formed, comprising representatives from the ministry, the NCA, MultiChoice Ghana, and MultiChoice Africa. The committee, chaired by the minister himself, has been tasked with concluding talks and presenting a consumer-friendly pricing structure by September 21, 2025.

According to Mr. George, MultiChoice initially requested a month-long period for discussions, but the ministry insisted on a shorter timeline.

“They have finally accepted that there will be a reduction. Now the issue is the level of reduction. I believe 14 days, inclusive of weekends, is sufficient for us to reach a decision,” he emphasized.

The minister further disclosed that Canal Plus Group, expected to finalize its acquisition of MultiChoice Africa by the end of September, has pledged to honour the committee’s recommendations and prioritize Ghana in its post-acquisition strategy.

Meanwhile, the NCA will enforce outstanding fines of GH¢10,000 per day on MultiChoice for 24 days of non-compliance in providing a cost breakdown of its bouquet pricing, in accordance with the Electronic Communications Act.

In response, MultiChoice Ghana issued a media statement clarifying its stance.

Media Statement: MultiChoice sets the record straight on DStv pricing

“We have noted the statement made by the Minister for Communications, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Samuel Nartey George. We continue to engage with the Minister in a bid to find an amicable solution beneficial to all parties involved but not detrimental to the viability of the DStv service.

We will fully participate in the established Working Committee. However, we wish to clarify that MultiChoice Group has not agreed to a price reduction.”