Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Sam George, has announced plans to inaugurate an inter-sectoral committee tasked with tackling the country’s persistently high internet data prices. The move follows mounting public frustration over the affordability of connectivity, which activists argue stifles digital inclusion and economic growth.
In a recent interview with JoyNews, George revealed that the committee will comprise representatives from various sectors, including telecommunications companies, regulatory bodies, and consumer advocacy groups. The committee’s primary objective will be to identify the root causes of Ghana’s high data costs and develop strategies to reduce them.
The high cost of internet data has been a longstanding issue in Ghana, with many citizens struggling to afford reliable and fast connectivity. This has significant implications for the country’s economic development, as digital technologies play an increasingly important role in driving growth and innovation.
Activists argue that the high cost of data stifles digital inclusion, limiting access to information, education, and economic opportunities for marginalized communities. Furthermore, the lack of affordable connectivity hinders the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises, which are critical to Ghana’s economic development.
The move to establish an inter-sectoral committee to tackle the issue of high data costs is a significant step towards addressing these challenges. By bringing together representatives from various sectors, the committee can develop a comprehensive understanding of the issues driving high data costs and identify effective solutions.
Some potential strategies that the committee may consider include implementing policies to promote competition among telecommunications companies, investing in digital infrastructure to improve connectivity, and providing subsidies or other forms of support to low-income households to help them afford internet access.
Minister Sam George’s announcement has been welcomed by consumer advocacy groups and citizens, who see it as a positive step towards making digital technologies more accessible and affordable. However, the success of the committee will depend on its ability to develop effective solutions and implement them in a timely and transparent manner.
As Ghana continues to navigate the challenges of digitalization, the establishment of this committee is a significant milestone. By working together to address the issue of high data costs, Ghana can unlock the full potential of digital technologies to drive economic growth, improve livelihoods, and enhance digital inclusion.
The committee’s work will be closely watched by citizens, consumer advocacy groups, and other stakeholders, who will be eager to see tangible progress in reducing data costs and improving digital connectivity. If successful, Ghana’s digital revolution could serve as a model for other countries in the region, demonstrating the potential of digital technologies to drive economic growth and improve livelihoods.