Accra, Ghana – In a significant development for Ghana’s telecommunications landscape, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, has announced a 10% increase in data bundle value for Telecel and AirtelTigo users, and reinstates GHS 399 for 214GB Data effective July 1, 2025.
This decision, unveiled during a press conference on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in addressing long-standing public concerns over data affordability and network performance in Ghana. The move comes as part of a broader data value initiative aimed at enhancing digital inclusion across the country, reflecting the government’s response to mounting pressure from tech-savvy Ghanaians and social media campaigns.
Sam George Annouces 10% Increase in Data Bundles Effective July 1
Sam George release new data prices starting July 1#GhanaTrends https://t.co/6jHfMEOd4a
— GhanaTrends.com (@GhanaTrendsInc) June 10, 2025
The announcement highlights a tailored approach to telecom policy, with Telecel and AirtelTigo set to offer 10% more data on existing pricing structures, while MTN users will benefit from a 15% increase, as separately confirmed by the Minister. This differential strategy underscores the unique operational challenges and network capacities of each provider, with the Ministry engaging directly with CEOs to secure these improvements. According to a GBC Ghana Online report published on the same day, the decision follows intensive negotiations, with the Ministry granting policy approvals for spectrum access, including Telecel’s upcoming use of the 2100 MHz band to boost 4G coverage and service quality.
The 10% data value increase is poised to transform how Ghanaians access the internet, particularly for Telecel and AirtelTigo subscribers who have faced inconsistent service delivery in recent years. For instance, a GHS 100 bundle currently offering 195GB will now provide 236GB, a tangible uplift that could spur greater digital engagement, from online education to e-commerce.
This initiative also aligns with global trends, as seen in Indonesia’s Telkomsel repurposing spectrum to enhance 4G capacity, suggesting Ghana’s telecom sector is catching up with international standards. The Minister expressed gratitude to the telecom giants for their willingness to support customers despite rising operational costs, including a hefty 39% tax burden on data services.
Public reaction on X has been a mix of optimism and skepticism as some users have questioned the timing and adequacy of the increase, given past economic pressures when the dollar hit 16 cedis.
The Ministry’s proactive stance, bolstered by spectrum enhancements, signals a potential shift from years of mismanagement in Ghana’s telecom sector, a concern highlighted by telecom review analyses dating back to 2023 when MTN Ghana last adjusted prices due to operational costs.
Sam George EXPOSES Telecel’s Poor Network
Despite the positive strides, Hon. Samuel Nartey George faces criticism over Telecel’s persistent 4G network failures, particularly in areas like Amasaman and East Legon. Residents in these bustling communities have voiced frustration over dropped calls and sluggish internet speeds, with social media posts on X detailing outages that disrupt both personal and business activities. Critics argue that the Minister’s focus on data value increases has overshadowed the need for reliable infrastructure, with some attributing the issues to inadequate spectrum utilization and delayed upgrades.
The criticism intensified as local leaders in Amasaman and East Legon called for urgent action, pointing to Telecel’s failure to deliver on promised 4G enhancements despite the recent 2100 MHz spectrum approval. Hon. George has promised to address these concerns, acknowledging the technical challenges but emphasizing that the data value initiative is a stepping stone toward broader network improvements. As Ghana’s telecom sector navigates this transition, the Minister’s ability to balance public expectations with operational realities will be closely watched in the coming months.
