In Ghana, the National Communication Authority (NCA) has responded to public concerns regarding high internet data pricing, which has affected businesses and sparked outrage on social media.
Many have called for the dissolution of the NCA board due to high data costs and unreliable data supply, which some attribute to MTN’s declaration as a Significant Market Power (SMP).
However, in a statement, the NCA clarified that the SMP classification aims to promote fair competition in the telecommunications industry, not burden MTN’s operations.
The Authority explained that unbalanced interconnection rates, tariff parity, and technology neutrality will promote competition, encourage innovation, and protect consumers’ interests.
According to NCA, these measures will enable other operators to compete effectively, offer sustainable pricing, and invest in improving service quality.
Contrary to public concerns, NCA also cited a report that ranked Ghana as the third-cheapest country in Africa and second in West Africa for mobile internet data pricing.
The NCA has assured consumers that it will continue to work closely with stakeholders to ensure reliable internet access.