By Osei-Tutu Esther Kumah
Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has announced plans to introduce new DStv subscription packages from November 5, 2026, as the government intensifies efforts to combat television piracy and improve access to affordable content in Ghana.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, October 26, Mr George said the proposed pricing arrangements were intended to provide subscribers with more accessible options while ensuring value for money.
He explained that a package priced at GH¢50 per month would cost subscribers less than GH¢2 a day, while another package would cost slightly above GH¢3 daily. A GH¢250 package, he added, would offer access to more than 120 channels featuring sports and entertainment content, including Formula One and golf.
Mr George stressed that the announced prices were fixed rather than promotional offers. However, the planned implementation was subject to the necessary clearance following the Attorney-General’s opinion.
On piracy, the minister said the government would continue working with the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), the National Communications Authority (NCA), National Security, Customs and other relevant agencies to tackle the illegal distribution and use of television services.
He explained that enforcement against piracy must be accompanied by affordable legal alternatives for consumers.
“If you’re going to make it a high-risk enterprise for people to use pirated boxes, then you need to make it a low-entry access for everybody,” he said.
Mr George further disclosed that the committee established to address subscription pricing and piracy concerns remained active, with its mandate extending beyond pricing to include measures against illegal access to television content.
He said discussions with Canal +, which owns MultiChoice Group, had pointed towards a possible resolution and a sustainable approach to improving access to television services for Ghanaians.
The Minister added that extensive work had been undertaken and that Canal+ would announce the specific packages available to consumers, allowing subscribers to choose options suited to their needs and budgets.
Alex Okyere Chief Executive Officer stated that
“MultiChoice and Canal Plus Company are merged now into one group.
The development follows continued concerns about subscription affordability and cross-border piracy, which the government has identified as issues affecting consumers and the local broadcasting industry.
The government’s approach combines pricing discussions with stronger enforcement, with the stated aim of making legitimate television services accessible while discouraging the use of pirated decoders.
