MultiChoice Assures Staff amidst Ghanaian Government’s DSTV Licence Suspension Threat
accra, Ghana – MultiChoice, the operator of the popular satellite television service DSTV, has issued an internal circular too its staff in Ghana, urging calm and assuring them of proactive measures to address a directive from the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George. The company is working to prevent the suspension of its broadcasting licence, which is slated for August 7, 2025, if subscription fees are not reduced.
The ultimatum stems from Minister george’s instruction to the National Communications authority (NCA) on August 1, 2025, following MultiChoice’s refusal to adjust its pricing considering recent gains in the Ghanaian cedi’s value. This move highlights a growing tension between the government’s desire for consumer affordability and the operational realities of international service providers.
In a detailed nine-page response submitted to the Ministry, MultiChoice defended its pricing structure. The company cited a significant depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi by over 200% in the preceding eight years. furthermore, MultiChoice argued that the recent recognition of the local currency is not yet stable enough to warrant a price reduction, suggesting that such a move could jeopardize the long-term viability of its services in the Ghanaian market.
This situation underscores a critical debate about pricing regulations in the telecommunications and broadcasting sectors, particularly in emerging economies where currency fluctuations can considerably impact both service providers and consumers. The government’s firm stance reflects a commitment to protecting consumers from perceived unfair pricing practices, while MultiChoice’s position emphasizes the complexities of managing business operations amidst volatile economic conditions. The coming days will be crucial in determining the outcome for DSTV subscribers in Ghana and could set a precedent for future regulatory actions in the industry.
