Accra: Subscribers are set to enjoy increased value on data bundles starting Tuesday, July 1, 2025, following a directive from Mr. Samuel Nartey George, the Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations. The announcement came during a media briefing held on June 10, where Mr. George instructed the three major mobile telecommunication networks to enhance their data offerings.
According to Ghana News Agency, the directive requires AT and Telecel, both government-owned, to boost their data bundles by 10 per cent, while MTN Ghana is to increase theirs by 15 per cent. This adjustment is to provide a month-long period for the telecommunications companies to recalibrate their systems to accommodate the new bundle values.
MTN Ghana plans to reinstate its GHS399 data bundle, now offering 214 gigabytes instead of the previous 92.88 gigabytes for GHS350. AT's GHS400 data bundle will increase to 236 gigabytes, up from 195 gigabytes, and Telecel's GHS400 bundle will see a rise from 90 gigabytes to 250 gigabytes. These changes follow recommendations from a 23-member Data Pricing Review Committee, which outlined a roadmap to resolve issues related to value, pricing, and quality in the sector.
Special data bundle solutions have also been curated for tertiary students and content creators, extending these benefits to subscribers of all three telecommunications companies across Ghana, effective July 1. Mr. Sam George acknowledged the potential cost implications of the directive and mentioned ongoing discussions with the CEOs of the telecom companies to ensure a balance between enhanced consumer value and operational challenges.
The minister expressed gratitude to the telecom companies, stating, "To the CEOs, you have my back. We have pledged our continued fidelity to the people of Ghana who are the customers of the telephone." He also instructed the National Communications Authority (NCA) to monitor compliance with the directive and report any breaches for sanctions.
Further discussions are underway with the Minister of Finance for the rationalisation of tax components in the sector, which could lead to reduced data prices. Mr. George emphasized the need for a telecom tariff akin to that in the mining sector, which could lower the 39 per cent tax burden on data prices.
The minister concluded by highlighting the importance of healthy competition in the telecommunications sector, stating, "We need intense competition in the sector, but it must be healthy and sustainable. I am committed to value other data bundle offerings and most importantly, this policy action will culminate in price reductions in the medium to long-term."