Mobile data prices to be reduces in the coming months – Sam George

Minister for Communications, Sam Nartey George, has shared the government’s detailed plan to lower the cost of mobile data in Ghana.

According to him, earlier efforts to reduce prices were unsuccessful largely due to challenges with how the policies were implemented.

In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Mr. George pointed out that although some statistics show Ghana’s data charges are relatively cheaper than in some other African countries, this doesn’t reflect the reality on the ground for many citizens. He noted that data remains expensive for the average Ghanaian, especially when compared with daily income levels.

Currently, the cost of 1GB of data is around GHS17 (roughly $1.37), which is almost the same as Ghana’s daily minimum wage of GHS19.97 (approximately $1.61). This comparison shows that for a lot of people, maintaining regular internet access is a financial struggle.

The Minister gave his word that adjustments to mobile data pricing would take place in the coming months. However, he clarified that these changes would not be based on public outcry or emotions. Instead, the Ministry would stick closely to a structured roadmap developed by a 23-member committee known as the Inter-Agency Data Pricing Committee.

He disclosed that this committee spent two weeks reviewing the situation and putting together a solid plan, which is now being implemented step by step.

Mr. George also made it clear that executing the policy properly is essential. One key issue, he said, is ensuring that alternative mobile networks are strong enough before introducing pricing changes that affect the big players in the industry.

“If you want me to move from network A, because you’ve made them more expensive, is network B going to give me the quality of service I want?” he asked.

He explained that all service providers must invest simultaneously so that customers can expect reliable service no matter which network they choose.

The Ministry’s approach focuses on three core goals—reducing prices, maintaining service quality, and delivering better value for customers. Mr. George further clarified how this strategy would benefit users.

“So, I mean, when we talk value, if today you were getting, say, 100 gig for a certain price, value would mean that you could get more than 100 gig at the same price,” Mr. George explained.

He gave his assurance that soon, Ghanaians will be able to buy more data for less money compared to what is currently being offered by mobile network providers.

To support this process with accurate information, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has dispatched a team to Ghana. Their role is to carry out an independent review of the country’s data pricing situation. This review will strengthen the Ministry’s reliance on data and facts rather than public pressure or assumptions.

The findings from the ITU’s assessment will help shape future data pricing decisions and ensure that internet costs are more affordable and in line with the financial reality facing ordinary Ghanaians.