Ghana imposes daily GH¢10,000 fine on DSTV for non-compliance

The Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations has begun enforcing a GH¢10,000 daily penalty against MultiChoice Ghana (DSTV) for failing to provide critical pricing information required under the Electronic Communications Act. The fine took effect on August 14, 2025, following DSTV's failure to meet multiple submission deadlines. 

Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George confirmed the sanctions during a meeting with DSTV executives, stressing the company's continued non-compliance despite being granted an extension until August 11. The requested data includes detailed breakdowns of bouquet pricing structures, tax components, and comparative pricing from six other African markets – information deemed essential for evaluating subscription fee fairness. 

Minister George emphasized the government's dual focus on regulatory enforcement and consumer protection. "We cannot engage in meaningful discussions about pricing without this foundational data," he stated, noting the fines will accumulate daily until full compliance is achieved. The Ministry maintains this information will determine whether high subscription costs stem primarily from taxation or corporate pricing strategies. 

The dispute has escalated against the backdrop of the Ministry's September 6 deadline for DSTV to implement price reductions or face potential license suspension. While acknowledging willingness to advocate for tax reviews if evidence warrants, the Minister reiterated the government's authority to enforce affordability measures should the data reveal unjustified pricing margins. 

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye