Communication Minister Sam Nartey George says Ghanaians will get pleasure from cheaper and enhanced information bundles on 5 nationwide holidays this yr following a breakthrough settlement with telcos.
Talking on Pleasure Information’ PM Categorical on Tuesday, the Ningo Prampram MP revealed particulars of the deal reached with telco CEOs and outlined broader plans to make information extra reasonably priced.
“I went to the CEOs with 18 holidays within the nation, asking that they do what they did on Independence Day,” he mentioned. “They mentioned I used to be going to break down and bankrupt the companies.”
After back-and-forth negotiations, a compromise was reached. “We agreed on 5 nationwide holidays,” he disclosed.
“Independence Day, Might Day, Republic Day, Founders’ Day, and Farmers’ Day. On these 5 days, there will probably be specialised information bundles, cheaper charges for each Ghanaian.”
The initiative builds on the Independence Day information reduction that supplied enhanced packages. “What we did on Independence Day, the improved bundles — that’s going to be replicated,” he confirmed.
Sam George careworn that this isn’t the top of the push for decrease costs. He arrange a committee that has already submitted a roadmap.
“Individuals mentioned I promised costs would drop in 14 days. No. I mentioned I might get a roadmap in 14 days,” he clarified. “And in 13 days, the committee submitted it.”
That roadmap accommodates quick, medium, and long-term options.
“Within the quick time period, we aren’t able to drop costs throughout the entire spectrum,” he admitted. “So we’ve picked particular demographics.”
The Ministry, with assist from the regulator, is now constructing databases to focus on these teams.
“As soon as we’ve the info units of people we’re focusing on, the announcement will probably be made,” he mentioned. “I met with the stakeholders at present who should present that information.”
The hassle has acquired full assist from telcos. “I met all three CEOs. And all three agreed we wanted to do one thing about information costs.”
Past the speedy plans, the minister recognized taxation and energy prices as structural boundaries. “Taxation is an enormous a part of it,” he mentioned. “And the associated fee build-up when it comes to energy.”
He introduced that the Public Utilities Regulatory Fee will probably be engaged to create a telecom tariff, much like what exists for mining companies.
“Mining will get bulk energy at a preferential price. Telecom doesn’t, though towers throughout Ghana are consuming energy. That should change.”
By means of this multi-pronged method, the minister believes significant and sustainable information pricing reform could be achieved.
“This isn’t only a speak store,” he mentioned. “We’re placing within the work.”
He additionally expressed deep appreciation to trade gamers.
“I need to say I’m extraordinarily grateful to the three telcos. They’ve proven dedication.”
The Communication Minister made it clear that whereas change gained’t occur in a single day, Ghanaians will quickly start to really feel the affect.
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