The National Communication Authority (NCA) says that data prices will decrease by the end of the year, addressing widespread complaints about high costs and unsatisfactory services.
This comes amid an outcry over high internet data pricing and calls for the dissolution of the NCA board, partly due to MTN being labeled as a Significant Market Power (SMP). Many argue that this designation has led to poor data services and higher prices, although the NCA seems to disagree.
There’s also a campaign on social media, to have regulators immediately address internet costs.
Tomorrow, the NCA is having a meeting. We hope they announce and implement something positive regarding the data prices because next week, we are starting the interviews. If the interviewers finish all the videos and there is no positive reduction in data prices, I will announce…
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— Tech In Twi (@tech_twi) July 24, 2024
But speaking on Citi FM’s Eye Witness News on Thursday, the Director General of the NCA, Dr. Joe, said data prices are set to decrease as the authority eyes the launch of the NGIC wholesale carrier-neutral open access network.
This network, expected to be operational by the end of the year, will enable operators like AT, Telecel, and MTN to purchase data in bulk without upgrading their towers or equipment. This efficiency should lower consumer costs, Dr. Anokye said.
“Data prices are expected to go down, especially again with the NGIC wholesale career neutral open access. They are supposed to launch by the last quarter of the year, and going from there we begin adding more towers. I think we should be hopeful,” he said.
