The National Communication Authority (NCA) has pledged to reduce data prices by the end of 2024, responding to mounting concerns over exorbitant costs and subpar services. This move aims to address the public’s frustration and criticism, which has included calls for the NCA board’s dissolution.
The controversy surrounding MTN’s designation as a Significant Market Power (SMP) has sparked accusations of market manipulation, leading to unreliable data supply and inflated prices.
The National Communication Authority (NCA) issued a statement on July 21,2024 clarifying that the Significant Market Power (SMP) designation for MTN is intended to promote a level playing field, not hinder the company’s operations. The NCA has come out to further explain the statement highlighting that measures such as equal interconnection rates, tariff parity, and technology neutrality will stimulate competition, drive innovation, and safeguard consumer interests.
Director General of the National Communication Authority (NCA), Dr Joe Anokye revealed in an interview with an Accra-based radio station that the upcoming launch of the NGIC wholesale carrier-neutral open access network is expected to drive down data prices. Scheduled for launch by the end of 2024, this innovative network will allow operators such as AT, Telecel, and MTN to purchase bulk data without the need for costly upgrades to towers or equipment, resulting in enhanced efficiency and lower costs for consumers.
He expressed confidence that data prices will decrease, stating that with the introduction of the NGIC wholesale carrier-neutral open access network, data prices are expected to drop. Operators like AT, Telecel, and MTN will be able to purchase bulk data without the need for costly upgrades to their towers or equipment to provide 4G services, as another entity will be handling the infrastructure requirements