The Ghanaian government has reached a breakthrough agreement with telecommunication companies to provide cheaper and enhanced data bundles on five national holidays this year. According to Communication Minister Sam Nartey George, the holidays include :
- Independence Day
- May Day
- Republic Day
- Founders' Day
- Farmers' Day
On these days, Ghanaians can expect specialized data bundles with cheaper rates, similar to the enhanced packages offered on Independence Day. This initiative aims to make data more affordable and build on the success of the Independence Day data relief.
Background and Negotiations
The Minister revealed that he initially approached the telco CEOs with a proposal to offer discounted data bundles on all 18 national holidays in Ghana. However, after negotiations, a compromise was reached to limit the offer to five national holidays. The Minister emphasized that this is not the end of the push for lower prices, but rather a step towards achieving meaningful and sustainable data pricing reform.
Roadmap for Data Pricing Reform
A committee set up by the Minister has submitted a roadmap containing short, medium, and long-term solutions to make data more affordable. In the short term, the focus will be on specific demographics, and the Ministry is working with the regulator to build databases to target these groups. Once the data sets are ready, an announcement will be made on the specific plans for these groups.
Support from Telcos and Structural Barriers
The effort has received full support from the three telco CEOs, who have agreed that something needs to be done about data prices. However, the Minister identified taxation and power costs as significant structural barriers to affordable data. To address this, the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission will be engaged to create a telecom tariff, similar to what exists for mining firms, which get bulk power at a preferential rate.
Expected Impact
Through this multi-pronged approach, the Minister believes that meaningful and sustainable data pricing reform can be achieved. While change may not happen overnight, Ghanaians can expect to feel the impact soon. The Minister expressed gratitude to the three telcos for their commitment to the initiative.
Previous Data Bundle Initiatives
In the past, mobile network operators in Ghana have offered special data bundles on national holidays. For example, on Independence Day, a package providing 6 GB of data for GHS 10 with an extended validity of 72 hours was introduced. This initiative demonstrates the potential for collaborative efforts between the government and telcos to make data more affordable.
Conclusion
The introduction of cheaper and enhanced data bundles on five national holidays is a positive step towards making data more affordable in Ghana. With the support of telcos and a clear roadmap for data pricing reform, the government is working towards achieving sustainable and meaningful change. As the Ministry continues to work on implementing the roadmap, Ghanaians can look forward to more affordable data options in the future.
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