Dormaa-ahenkro: Mr Reindolph Afrifa-Oware, the Director of Communications and Corporate Affairs of the National Tenants Union of Ghana, has called for market-conscious leadership in the nation's communications sector. His appeal comes amid tensions between the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation and MultiChoice Ghana, operators of DStv.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Afrifa-Oware criticized Mr Samuel Nartey George, the sector minister, for his 'threats to shut down DStv' due to the company's refusal to reduce its subscription fees. He described the minister's threats as 'regulatory overreach'. Mr Afrifa-Oware argued that shutting down DStv over its refusal to reduce subscription fees by 30 percent lacks legal foundation and is economically irrational, noting that the nation is not under any price control regime.
He elaborated that compelling a private entity to lower its prices without addressing the cost structures that influence those prices is not regulation but coercion. Mr Afrifa-Oware warned that such threats could undermine investor confidence and deter foreign direct investment in a sector that thrives on innovation and competition.
Mr Afrifa-Oware emphasized that this kind of populist posturing might capture headlines but sends the wrong signals to the international business community. He advocated for leadership that understands the dynamics of open markets rather than one that weaponizes authority.
He encouraged a strategic focus on digital transformation, broadband expansion, and support for local tech startups. Mr Afrifa-Oware urged the minister to continue the legacies of his predecessor by building fiber optics networks, training girls in ICT, and creating an environment where innovation can prosper.
Furthermore, Mr Afrifa-Oware stressed that if affordability is the goal, the solution lies in fostering competition, reducing operational barriers, and incentivizing new market entrants, rather than threatening existing players. He highlighted the importance of addressing issues like rural connectivity, cybersecurity, and digital literacy, which affect millions of Ghanaians more than subscription fees on premium TV.
Mr Afrifa-Oware urged the sector minister to focus on building trust, inspiring confidence, and creating a principled, forward-thinking leadership environment for the sector to thrive. He pointed out that the debate over DStv pricing has broader implications for regulatory ethics, market freedom, and the future of Ghana's digital economy.
