Audio By Carbonatix
The MP for Mpraeso, Davis Ansah Opoku, is advocating for a transformative shift in the telecommunications sector for affordable internet.
He is proposing the introduction of fixed monthly data packages offering unlimited access to digital services for all Ghanaians.
Davis Ansah Opoku, a member of the Information and Communications Committee, made this call during an interview on Channel One News on Friday, July 4, describing the proposal as essential for achieving true digital inclusion and long-term price stability.
READ ALSO: 5G or lose license: Government issues final ultimatum to NGIC as Q4 2025 looms
Mr Opoku's comments come hot on the heels of a significant intervention by the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George (MP), who on Thursday, July 4, pressed MultiChoice Ghana to reduce its DStv subscription fees by 30%.
Prior to that, the minister was able to engage Telcos to revise internet plans to increase data for the same amount purchased.
This ministerial directive was directly linked to the Ghanaian Cedi's remarkable 30% appreciation against major international currencies over the past five months, a period during which consumer frustration mounted over stagnating service prices.
While commending Minister Nartey George's proactive stance, MP Davis Ansah Opoku stressed that a more sustainable solution is needed to insulate Ghanaian consumers from future economic volatilities.
“I think it is very welcoming. When data prices are reduced, it is something that Ghanaian people will be excited about. As the minister said, the DStv directive is as a result of the appreciation of the Ghana cedi, and this is something that we expected the telcos to have done, and so for him to have prompted them is something that deserves commendation." Mr Opoku stated, acknowledging the positive impact of the Cedi's recent strength.
However, he immediately pivoted to a forward-looking vision: "However, we are looking forward to some pragmatic steps, so that even if the dollar depreciates, we will still have reduced prices. I am looking forward to a fixed rate where Ghanaians enjoy unlimited services every month. And so it is a good step and we commend him for that.”
This bold proposal aims to address the perennial challenge of fluctuating data costs, which often mirror the Cedi's performance against foreign currencies. For Ghana, a nation with over 40 million mobile subscriptions and a burgeoning digital economy, reliable and affordable internet access is no longer a luxury but a fundamental necessity for education, business, and social connectivity. The average Ghanaian currently spends a significant portion of their income on data, with current packages often having volume caps that limit extensive digital engagement.
The call for unlimited fixed-rate data packages echoes similar initiatives in other digitally advanced nations and could significantly boost Ghana's digital literacy and economic productivity.
Such a move would require extensive collaboration between the government, regulatory bodies like the National Communications Authority (NCA), and major telecommunication service providers, including MTN Ghana, Vodafone Ghana, and AirtelTigo, which collectively serve the vast majority of the Ghanaian mobile market. Implementing such a policy would not only enhance consumer welfare but also align with the broader goals of digital transformation and inclusion outlined in the government's development agenda.
Latest Stories
-
Government communication alone won’t fix tomato shortage – Dr Charles Nyaaba
3 minutes -
Ghanaian community in Switzerland champions inclusive governance at Diaspora Dialogue Series
24 minutes -
UN slavery resolution isn’t binding, but revives calls for reparations – Prof Appiagyei-Atua
28 minutes -
Ablakwa expresses deep gratitude to UN member states for backing Ghana’s slavery resolution
31 minutes -
Gender Minister engages management, introduces new Chief Director at MoGCSP
38 minutes -
Last Gallop: The rise, fall and fight for Horse Racing in Ghana
41 minutes -
Communications Minister launches Ghana Climate Atlas to strengthen planning and climate resilience
44 minutes -
Maintain credibility, reduce commentary — NDC elections director advises Mussa Dankwah
49 minutes -
NDPC urges time discipline and stronger systems to accelerate Ghana’s development
51 minutes -
AU’s legal path to UN slavery resolution not strong enough – Prof Appiagyei-Atua
53 minutes -
Ghana Boundary Commission flags damaged pillars and development gaps in Bono Border communities
55 minutes -
Enforcing UN slavery resolution will be difficult — Prof Appiagyei-Atua
58 minutes -
Ghana, UK deepen education ties as Haruna Iddrisu meets British High Commissioner
58 minutes -
Students urged to lead climate action through Ghana Green Scholars Programme
1 hour -
IMANI Brief: When service to nation becomes opportunities for sale
1 hour
