The National Communications Authority (NCA) has stated that the cost of data in Ghana is relatively inexpensive. This claim is supported by a report from cable.co.uk, which the NCA has reviewed and validated.
According to the report, Ghana ranks as the second country in the West Africa region with the lowest cost of data. “Data from a report published by cable.co.uk and reviewed by the Authority as part of a regular Billing Monitoring exercise, ranked Ghana 3rd in Africa for the cheapest mobile internet data pricing and 2nd in the West African region,” the NCA’s statement noted.
This assertion comes amid public concerns over high data costs in the country. The discontent grew following the declaration of MTN as a Significant Market Power (SMP), which many Ghanaians fear might worsen the situation.
In a statement issued on July 21, the NCA clarified that the SMP classification of MTN is not intended to hinder the company’s operations but to ensure fair competition in the telecommunications sector.
“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 operators to compete effectively, offer sustainable pricing, and invest in improving service quality,” the NCA explained.