Ghana Threatens MultiChoice Over Price Dispute

MultiChoice Ghana is under government pressure to reduce DStv subscription rates by 30%, or face a suspension of its broadcasting licence. The directive, issued by Ghana’s Ministry of Communication, stems from claims that the company’s current pricing structure is unfair when compared to other African countries.

Ghana’s cedi has been one of the strongest currencies in 2025, appreciating by 40% against the US dollar, only behind Russia’s ruble. With this currency gain, Minister Samuel Nartey George questioned MultiChoice’s 15% price increase in April, calling it unjustified. He pointed out that subscribers in Ghana pay about $83 for DStv’s premium package — almost three times the $29 Nigerians pay for the same content.

Company Pushes Back as Deadline Looms

In an attempt to resolve the issue, MultiChoice reportedly offered to freeze its current prices and delay the repatriation of profits to its headquarters. However, the government dismissed the move, calling instead for a direct reduction in subscription rates to reflect Ghana’s improved economic situation.

“It is not tenable to reduce the DStv subscription fees in the manner proposed by the minister,” MultiChoice said in a statement. The company insisted it strives to keep prices as low as possible without compromising service quality, even while navigating a challenging business climate.

According to reports, MultiChoice has until August 7 to comply. If it fails to adjust the pricing, the Ghanaian government may move to suspend its licence.

This isn’t the first time MultiChoice has faced pricing backlash in Africa. In Nigeria, the company is already battling a legal case following a March price increase, with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) leading the charge. The agency argues that the hike breaches consumer protection laws and has triggered widespread public outcry.