Ghanaians can now expect a long-awaited reduction in DSTv subscription fees after weeks of regulatory pressure on pay-TV operator MultiChoice Ghana.
The announcement was made on Friday, September 5, 2025, by Ghana’s Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Sam George, following intense negotiations.
Why the Price Cut Was Ordered
In August 2025, the government issued a tough ultimatum to MultiChoice Ghana:
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Slash subscription prices by 30% before August 7 or risk suspension of its broadcasting license.
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Pay a daily fine of GHC 10,000 for non-compliance.
The directive followed public outrage that DSTv prices in Ghana were disproportionately higher than in other African countries, despite the Ghanaian cedi appreciating by 40% against the US dollar in 2025, making it one of the world’s strongest currencies.
For instance, the minister revealed that Ghanaians pay $83 for the Premium bouquet, compared to just $29 in Nigeria.
MultiChoice’s Initial Resistance
MultiChoice initially resisted the directive, arguing that:
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The 30% cut was not feasible.
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Prices were already kept “as low as possible” without compromising service.
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A 15% hike in April 2025 was necessary due to operational costs.
Instead, the company offered to freeze current prices and suspend repatriation of earnings to its South African headquarters — a proposal the minister flatly rejected.
Breakthrough in Negotiations
According to Sam George, the breakthrough came when MultiChoice finally submitted a comprehensive pricing breakdown, including:
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Tax components
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Price comparisons with at least six African countries
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Detailed bouquet pricing
This allowed for the creation of a pricing review committee, chaired by the Minister himself, with representatives from:
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Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology & Innovation
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National Communications Authority (NCA)
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MultiChoice Ghana
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MultiChoice Africa
Next Steps
MultiChoice has now agreed to reduce prices, but discussions continue on the exact percentage cut.
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MultiChoice requested 30 days to finalise the reduction plan.
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The Minister insisted 14 days is enough, with a September 21 deadline for completion.
Importantly, the government also confirmed that penalties will be enforced. Fines have already accumulated to about GHC 150,000 over 24 days, and the amount will be collected in full.
Bottom Line
For millions of Ghanaians, this development marks the beginning of relief from sky-high DSTv subscription fees. By late September, the new pricing structure is expected to take effect, finally bringing Ghana’s pay-TV costs closer in line with regional standards.
