Samuel Nartey George, the Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, has launched a 23-member Inter-Agency Data Pricing Committee to create a comprehensive plan aimed at reducing data costs in Ghana.
The committee includes representatives from various digital sector stakeholders and is expected to submit its final report by March 6, 2025.
The primary objective is to assess current pricing models and propose strategies for more competitive and affordable data services that support digital inclusion, economic growth, and national development.
The Communications Minister underscored the government’s commitment to transparency in data pricing and closing the digital divide.
“My fidelity is first and foremost to the Ghanaian people before any other consideration,” he stated. He clarified that the committee’s purpose is not merely to justify current data prices but to facilitate a broader discussion on pricing strategies.
Ken Ashigbey, the Chief Executive of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, praised the initiative as a crucial step in ensuring value for money in data pricing. He recognized the complexity of factors affecting data costs and expressed his commitment to working with the committee to achieve its goals.
Daniel Oppong Kyeremeh, President of the National Union of Ghana Students, thanked the committee for including student representation. He highlighted the challenges many students face with high data costs during online learning and research, expressing hope that the committee would lead to more affordable pricing.
The creation of this committee represents a significant move towards tackling the urgent issue of data affordability in Ghana.
