Internet users split over data reduction plan
The Communications Minister, Samuel Nartey George, announced a plan to reduce internet data bundle charges by between 10 and 15 per cent, starting on July 1, 2025, describing it as part of efforts to make digital access more affordable for Ghanaians.
The Minister said at a press briefing last week, on June 10, that the reduction follows extensive engagements with the CEOs of AT Ghana, Telecel Ghana Limited and Scancom Ghana Limited (MTN Ghana), aimed at enhancing value for Ghanaian consumers while addressing operational challenges faced by the telecom sector.
He outlined specific adjustments to data bundle value offerings across the three major operators.
For MTN Ghana, which holds Significant Market Power (SMP) status, there will be a 15 per cent increase in the prices of all data bundles currently offered.
“I am pleased to announce the restoration of the GH¢399 bundle, which currently has been changed to the GH¢350 bundle that offers 92.88GB, will henceforth be reinstated to 214GB for GH¢399,” he said.
But among professionals and workers whose daily activities depend heavily on the internet, the reaction has been far from unanimous.
While some consider the move a welcome relief, others argue that it is inadequate, given the cost of doing business online, the quality of service and the rising cost of living.
The Graphic Business spoke to individuals who rely on the Internet for their work.
Their views reflect the broader frustrations and hopes tied to Ghana’s digital economy.
Opinions
For Daniel Koranteng, a Graphic Designer based in Accra, the proposed reduction is too small to have any real effect.
He spends most of his workday online, sharing large design files, attending virtual meetings and using design platforms that require strong internet connectivity.
The cost, he says, is already too high and the quality too poor.
“It is a good start. But honestly, it is not enough. Data in Ghana is still too expensive. If you compare what we pay to other countries with better network quality, we are being short-changed. A 10 per cent cut will not change much unless telcos improve speed and reliability. The Minister should push further, maybe 30 per cent, and force for better service,” he said.
A relief
Helena Mensah, a teacher at a basic school in Accra, said the reduction, although small, will make a difference, especially for teachers and students who increasingly rely on digital learning tools.
From virtual teaching to research and lesson planning, internet access has become essential in her line of work.
“Data is a big part of our lives now. Students are using it for research, as well as teachers. So any reduction helps. Even 10 per cent is something. I think if we support the move, there could be more reductions in the future. Let us not dismiss it just because it is not as big as we hoped,” she said.
Sceptical
For Prince Amoateng, a driver for an online taxi-hailing service in Accra said, data is not just important but is the backbone of his daily operations.
From tracking passengers to updating customers through mobile apps, he relies heavily on fast and stable internet.
His frustration lies not just in the cost, but in how telcos often change bundle prices without warning.
“But how do we know the telcos will actually reduce prices? Bundle prices go up or disappear without warning. Unless we see real changes soon, this is just another speech. I will believe it when I buy five cedis data and it actually lasts longer,” he said.
Stronger Intervention
University student Ruth Naa Amankwah Abbey uses the internet for lectures, assignments and her online side business.
She welcomed the announcement but believes a 10 to 15 per cent cut does not go far enough to support students or small business owners struggling to stay connected.
“We use the internet for everything: assignments, lectures, social media, even small businesses. A cut is good, but it should have been at least 20 or 25 per cent to feel real relief. Right now, I spend more on data than food, some weeks,” she said.
Broader reform
Boris Osei, an ICT consultant in Accra, agreed that reducing bundle prices is important, but argued that the focus should not stop there.
He indicated that slow speeds, limited network coverage and poor customer service are also major challenges that affect productivity, especially in remote areas.
“It is a strategic move, and I think it shows the government is paying attention to digital infrastructure. However, we should not only focus on prices. What about coverage in rural areas and the speed? What about consistent speeds? If we reduce prices without demanding quality from telcos, it is like giving people cheaper water from a leaking tap. A holistic approach is what is needed,” he said.