More Ghanaians are speaking out about how fast their mobile data is getting used up, despite paying more for it. Many believe they’re not getting the full value of what they pay for.
🔺 Price Hike, But Less Value?
Recently, mobile network operators in Ghana raised the cost of data bundles by 15%. This increase followed a directive from the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) requiring telcos to apply VAT (Value Added Tax) to their services. As a result, bundles that were already costly for some are now even harder to afford.
But price isn’t the only issue. Many users are reporting that the data runs out faster than ever before—some within hours, even when they’re not streaming videos or downloading large files.
📢 What Users Are Saying
People across social media and in radio discussions have voiced their frustrations. Here are a few common concerns:
“I just bought 2GB and in less than 30 minutes it was gone.”
“My daily bundle used to last me until night, now it’s finished after a few WhatsApp messages and emails.”
“What exactly is using all the data when I’m not even online?”
These are not isolated cases. Many Ghanaians—students, workers, entrepreneurs, and even older users—say they’re experiencing the same problem regardless of which network they use.
đź’» Not Just Heavy Usage
Some blame automatic app updates or background data usage on smartphones. Others think the telcos are simply not being transparent.
A tech analyst speaking on TV3 noted that while some users may not know what uses their data, the speed of depletion seems unusual even for experienced smartphone users. He urged the National Communications Authority (NCA) to step in and investigate.
📉 Trust in Telecoms Dropping
The situation has led to growing mistrust toward telecom companies. Many Ghanaians feel cheated—they are paying more for what seems like less service. Some have even switched to Wi-Fi options, while others are using fewer apps or reducing their time online.
There’s also concern about how this affects businesses. Many small businesses rely on mobile data to operate daily—from mobile money services to online customer support. When data disappears too quickly, it disrupts work and reduces income.
đź“Ł What Are People Asking For?
Users are calling for:
Transparency: Clear breakdowns of how data is being consumed.
Regulation: For the NCA or the Ministry of Communications to look into the matter.
Adjustments: Better value bundles or fairer pricing models.
Some have also suggested telecoms introduce data-saving features or real-time alerts to help customers monitor their usage more closely.
⚖️ What Telecoms Are Saying (So Far)
While some telecom operators have issued general statements saying they are “working to improve user experience,” no direct explanation has been given about the fast-depleting data issue. Customers are still waiting for a meaningful response.
🚨 A Growing Concern
This isn’t the first time Ghanaians have raised alarm over data issues. In previous years, similar complaints were made, but the problem seems worse now due to rising costs and increasing dependence on mobile internet.
As more people rely on their phones for school, work, banking, and entertainment, affordable and reliable data has become a necessity—not a luxury.
đź“Ś Final Thoughts
With public frustration rising, it is becoming urgent for telecom companies and regulators to act. Ghanaians want to feel that their hard-earned money is not being wasted—and that their voices are being heard.
If changes are not made soon, people may start demanding refunds, switching networks, or pushing for stronger regulations in the telecom industry.