MultiChoice Ghana has agreed to cut DStv subscription prices following weeks of pressure from the Ghanaian government. The decision was confirmed by Ghana’s Minister of Communications, Sam George, at a press conference on Friday, September 5, 2025, after MultiChoice submitted long-requested pricing data.
The government had accused the pay-TV operator of charging disproportionately high prices compared to other African markets, despite the Ghanaian cedi’s strong performance in 2025.
Background: Government Ultimatum to MultiChoice
In August 2025, the Ghanaian government issued a directive ordering MultiChoice Ghana to cut DStv subscription prices by 30% before August 7 or risk suspension of its broadcasting license. The directive also included a daily fine of GHC 10,000 for non-compliance.
Authorities argued that MultiChoice’s 15% price hike in April was unjustified since the cedi appreciated by 40% against the U.S. dollar this year.
For example:
Ghanaians pay $83 for the premium bouquet.
Nigerians pay only $29 for the same package.
MultiChoice initially resisted, offering instead to freeze rates and suspend profit repatriation. However, the government rejected this, insisting on a price adjustment that reflected fair regional pricing.
Pricing Data Submission and Committee Formation
After weeks of standoff, MultiChoice finally submitted comprehensive pricing data, including:
- A breakdown of bouquet prices
- Tax components
- Price comparisons with at least six other African countries
This paved the way for the establishment of a Pricing Review Committee, which includes representatives from the:
- Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation
- National Communications Authority (NCA)
- MultiChoice Ghana
- MultiChoice Africa
The committee, chaired by Minister Sam George, has been tasked with determining the new pricing structure by September 21, 2025.
Minister Sam George’s Firm Stance
Minister George stressed that MultiChoice has accepted a reduction will happen, but the debate now lies in determining the percentage cut.
“MultiChoice has requested a 30-day window for the committee to arrive at what percentage of reduction will be achieved. So let’s be clear, they have finally accepted that there will be a reduction. Now they want us to discuss the level of reduction,” he told journalists.
The Minister rejected the request for 30 days, saying 14 days is sufficient to conclude the review process.
Accumulated Fines to Be Enforced
George also confirmed that penalties tied to the earlier directive will be enforced. As of now, MultiChoice has accumulated about GHC 150,000 in fines over 24 days of non-compliance. The Minister stated that these penalties will be collected in full.
What’s Next for DStv Subscribers in Ghana?
The final pricing structure is expected to be announced by September 21, 2025. This development comes as a relief for millions of Ghanaian households who have long complained about high subscription costs compared to other African countries.
The reduction will not only boost affordability but also strengthen regulatory oversight of the pay-TV market in Ghana.
