MTN Ghana addresses public outcry over high data costs

Telecommunication giant MTN Ghana has responded to growing public concerns about the high cost of internet data, which has been affecting businesses and sparking outrage on social media.

The controversy has led many to call for the dissolution of the National Communications Authority (NCA) board, citing the high data costs and unreliable data supply.

Some attribute these issues to MTN Ghana’s designation as a Significant Market Player (SMP).

Addressing these concerns during a visit by the Parliamentary Select Committee on Communication, MTN Ghana’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer cited regulatory measures intended to foster competition amid public interest considerations.

“I believe the NCA has addressed the subject as to why we have some of the data pricing we have. They have also talked about how low our prices are in the sub-region.”

He further explained, “They also talked about the declaration of MTN Ghana as a significant market player which means that our data prices have to be higher than our competitors. I think the NCA also explained why we have the data structure the way it is, and that is to improve on competition. Those are some public interest reasons why this is the situation.”

The National Communications Authority (NCA) in a statement responding to similar concern noted, “It is important to note that the SMP classification is not intended to punish or stifle MTN’s operations but rather to ensure a level playing field in the market and protect consumer choice.

“By implementing measures such as asymmetric interconnection rates, tariff parity, and technology neutrality, the NCA aims to promote competition, encourage innovation, and protect consumers’ interests. These measures enable other operations to compete effectively, offer sustainable pricing, and invest in improving service quality”.