In a sweeping move to improve digital accessibility for Ghanaians, the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, led by Minister Samuel Nartey George (MP), has successfully negotiated significant data bundle enhancements across all major telecom networks, effective July 1, 2025.
Key Bundle Upgrades Announced:
- AirtelTigo (AT Ghana): The company's data offerings will see a uniform 10% increase, most notably the GHS 400 bundle, which will grow from 195 GB to 236 GB.
- Telecel Ghana: Also received a 10% boost; its GHS 400 package will expand dramatically from 90 GB to 250 GB.
- MTN Ghana: Saw its bundles increase by 15%, with the GHS 399 bundle being reinstated to offer 214 GB—a restoration from a previous lower-tiered package.
Minister George praised the telco CEOs for their cooperation, emphasizing that the agreement reflects a renewed partnership between government and industry to ensure that improvements in affordability do not compromise network reliability. He acknowledged the cost implications, stating, “I am aware these increases will come at considerable cost to the network operators… however, I am glad that our engagements and consultations are bearing fruit for the Ghanaian people.”
Enhanced Holiday Bundles Still in Effect
Building on earlier interventions, the government will continue to offer enhanced and more affordable data packages on five national holidays—Independence Day, May Day, Republic Day, Founders’ Day, and Farmers’ Day—mirroring successful pilots from past Independence Day specials.
Concerned about persisting service issues, the government is enforcing technology-neutral spectrum allocation and has assigned additional spectrum to MTN and Telecel, enabling telcos to invest in improved infrastructure. Following a grace period, the National Communications Authority (NCA) will enforce strict quality standards, with failures triggering “substantial fines.”
Broader Measures Under Consideration
The Ministry is also exploring cost-mitigation strategies targeting systemic barriers:
- Special electricity tariffs for telecom infrastructure—paralleling preferential rates given to mining companies.
- VAT and taxation reviews, addressing concerns that the existing fiscal policy contributes to high data costs.
An International Telecommunication Union (ITU) delegation is currently in Ghana conducting an independent review of the sector’s pricing, which will help inform future reforms.
Ghana's bold telecom reforms, from bundle expansion to long-term affordability strategies, offer a promising path toward enhanced digital connectivity. But achieving true digital inclusion depends on balancing cost reduction with unwavering network quality. Over the coming year, the government and regulators will need to ensure that telecom operators keep pace with the expectations set by these changes.
