Dr Joe Anokye, Director-General of the National Communications Authority (NCA), has disclosed that MTN Ghana commands more than 80% of the mobile data market in Ghana—his remarks amidst growing concerns about rising data prices, particularly those associated with MTN.
In an exclusive interview with an Accra radio station, Dr. Anokye addressed recent public outcry over data costs and MTN’s pricing strategies. He noted that the NCA had previously instructed MTN to raise its data prices and eliminate some of its more affordable bundles to avoid market distortion. This directive followed MTN’s designation as a Significant Market Power (SMP) in June 2020 due to its dominant share across various sectors, including voice, data, SMS, and mobile money.
Four years after this designation, MTN’s data market share has increased from 75% to over 80%, signalling a growing market imbalance. Despite regulatory efforts, the NCA has refrained from publishing monthly subscriber data, which would highlight MTN’s continued market expansion and the struggles of smaller telecom operators.
Dr Anokye emphasized that while the NCA regulates MTN’s pricing behaviour to ensure fair competition, it does not set prices for any market player. He highlighted that since November 2023, telecoms have yet to submit new prices for approval. Despite MTN’s status as the SMP, its prices remain competitive with other operators like Telecel and AT.
Dr. Anokye defended the NCA’s role, arguing that MTN’s growth is primarily attributed to its significant investment in network infrastructure rather than regulatory shortcomings. He cited MTN’s compliance with a nationwide 3G rollout mandate years ago as a critical factor in its growth, which other operators failed to meet.
To address market imbalances, the NCA has implemented several measures:
Asymmetrical Interconnect Rates: Non-SMP telcos benefit from a 30% discount on fees paid to MTN for terminating calls and SMS. This move has saved them approximately GHS 86.6 million in the first three years of its implementation.
National Roaming: This policy allows customers in areas with poor network coverage to use MTN’s infrastructure, with revenue shared between MTN and the other network.
Technology Neutrality: The NCA has facilitated the creation of the Next-Generation Infrastructure Company (NGIC), which will develop shared 4G and 5G infrastructure for all telecom operators. This initiative is expected to reduce costs and promote more affordable services.
Dr. Anokye confirmed that NGIC is slated to roll out its 4G and 5G networks by the end of the year, aiming to provide nationwide coverage and level the playing field for all telecom operators.
The NCA remains committed to ensuring fair competition and preventing monopolistic practices, thereby fostering a more equitable telecom market in Ghana. These efforts are aimed at securing the market’s future and ensuring a level playing field for all telecom operators.
