MultiChoice Ghana has issued a statement addressing recent comments made by the Minister for Communications Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, regarding the pricing of DStv services in the country.
In its release dated September 5, 2025, the company emphasised that while it remains committed to ongoing discussions with the government, no agreement has been reached on a reduction in subscription fees.
The statement read: “We continue to engage with the Minister in a bid to find an amicable solution that is beneficial for all parties involved but does not jeopardise the viability of the DStv service.”
MultiChoice further assured the public that it will fully participate in the Working Committee established to address the matter.
The clarification follows increasing public concern over the affordability of DStv packages in Ghana, where rising subscription costs have sparked calls for government intervention.
Earlier, Sam George issued a stern ultimatum to MultiChoice Ghana to slash DStv subscription prices by 30% or face the suspension of the broadcaster’s licence.
In early July 2025, George convened a high-level meeting with a delegation from MultiChoice Ghana, urging the company to lower DStv prices by 30%.
He emphasised that the Ghanaian cedi had appreciated by approximately 30% over the previous five months, yet subscription fees remained unchanged—despite widespread public frustration and outdated content offerings.
The Minister insisted that promotional deals weren’t enough; consumers want a permanent reduction in prices. He requested a formal response by July 21, 2025, to facilitate further discussions.
MultiChoice Ghana responded in July, rejecting the proposed cut and labelling it “not tenable.”
The company presented an alternative: maintain current subscription fees while halting revenue remittances to its South African headquarters.
Sam George dismissed this counteroffer as lacking logic and inadequate, reaffirming that his actions were driven by fairness and consumer protection.
On August 1, 2025, at a Government Accountability Series press conference in Accra, Sam George escalated the tone.
He directed the National Communications Authority (NCA) to begin proceedings to suspend MultiChoice’s operating licence if the 30% price cut was not in place by August 7, 2025.
He decried the pricing disparity, citing that Ghanaian consumers were paying the equivalent of US $83 for a premium DStv bouquet—while Nigerian subscribers paid just US $29 for identical content.
“It’s plain stealing,” Sam George declared.
Many subscribers have complained that the fees are out of reach for average households, especially amid economic challenges.
While the Minister had suggested progress in discussions aimed at lowering costs, MultiChoice has stressed that no final decision has been made.
The company’s position underscores the delicate balance between providing affordable services to customers and maintaining the financial sustainability of its operations.
MultiChoice’s statement seeks to dispel any misconceptions about imminent price cuts, while signalling its willingness to collaborate with stakeholders to find lasting solutions.
For now, DStv subscribers will have to wait for the outcome of the government’s negotiations with the pay-TV provider.
