Data Pricing Committee Given March 6 Submission Deadline
Samuel Nartey George, the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, has officially launched a 23-member Inter-Agency Data Pricing Committee in Accra.
The committee consists of representatives from various digital sector stakeholders, tasked with creating a strategic plan to lower data costs.
The team is expected to complete their report and present it to the Minister by March 6, 2025.
This initiative aims to analyze current pricing structures and offer recommendations for affordable, competitive data services to promote digital inclusion, economic progress, and national development.
According to the Minister, forming the committee highlights the government’s dedication to fostering transparency in data pricing and narrowing the digital gap.
“The industry players are businesspeople, not gatekeepers. But my primary responsibility is to the people of Ghana,” he stated.
He emphasized that the committee’s purpose is not to justify current pricing but to explore ways to make data more accessible.
Mr. George acknowledged that in January 2024, a mobile network provider proposed a 10% price reduction, paired with an 11% increase in value. However, the ministry delayed responding, wanting a more comprehensive approach.
The Minister stressed the government’s commitment to securing the best value for citizens, advocating for a thorough review of bundle offerings across all networks.
He noted that lower data costs could empower young Ghanaians to access remote work opportunities globally.
“This is a call to national service,” he added.
Ken Ashigbey, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, welcomed the initiative, pledging to meet the committee’s goals and deadline.
Daniel Oppong Kyeremeh, President of the National Union of Ghana Students, praised the inclusion of students, citing the high cost of data for research and online learning.
The collective effort is expected to result in a fairer, more accessible data landscape for all Ghanaians.
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