The Minister for Communications and Digital Technology, Sam Nartey George, has announced a new initiative that will see Ghanaian internet users benefiting from special data bundles on five national holidays each year.
Speaking on the back of ongoing efforts to make internet access more affordable and inclusive, the Minister revealed that these specially designed data packages will be available on Independence Day, May Day, Republic Day, Founder’s Day, and Farmers’ Day.
“In the interim, I have agreed with all three network operators to have unique data bundle packages for all subscribers on five national holidays – Independence Day, May Day, Republic Day, Founder’s Day and Farmers Day,” Mr. George stated at a press briefing yesterday.
- Special data bundles on five national holidays;
- – Independence Day
- – May Day
- – Republic Day
- – Founder’s Day
- – Farmers Day
“The Independence Day test run was a resounding success, and I look forward to working with the NCA and the MNOs on May Day for our next holiday offering in celebration of the workers of Ghana”.
The initiative follows the work of a Data Cost Pricing Committee, which the Minister constituted in February. This committee included representatives from telecommunication service providers, consumer groups, and regulatory bodies. The group was tasked with producing a roadmap to achieve more affordable data pricing within just 14 days.
“The Committee delivered its report in 13 days,” Mr. George noted. “I am grateful to all the stakeholders who worked assiduously and at no cost to the State to produce a short, medium-and long-term approach to data price rationalisation in our Country. Again, I say ayekoo to them for their selfless service to our Country.”
He said he had reviewed the committee’s proposals and forwarded them to the National Communications Authority (NCA), which is now working closely with mobile network operators (MNOs) to refine the implementation framework.
“The Authority under the able leadership of the Ag. Director-General has held several engagements with mobile network operators to discuss fashion implementation modalities. I have personally engaged with the CEOs of the three MNOs,” the Minister added.
He further disclosed that the telecom companies have already committed to improved data packages targeted at tertiary students, content creators, and the gig economy sector.
These packages are expected to be rolled out in the near future following technical validation by the NCA.
“All three have presented the Ministry and Regulator with specific improved data bundles for tertiary students across the Country, as well as content creation and gig economy demographics. In the coming days, the NCA will finalise the implementation and technical requirements with the relevant stakeholders for a public rollout,” he announced.
Source: Graphiconline.com
