MultiChoice Ghana has triggered frustration among subscribers after announcing a 15% monthly price increase for its Compact Plus bouquet, effective April 1, 2025.
The package, previously priced at GH¢495, will now cost GH¢570, a move criticized for its abrupt 48-hour notice and perceived lack of corresponding service enhancements.
Customers argue that the premium-tier offering fails to justify its cost, citing outdated content such as decades-old movies and documentaries dominating channel lineups. Many viewers note reruns of programs dating back to the 1990s, with limited fresh or innovative additions beyond live news and select sports broadcasts. Technical reliability remains another pain point, as subscribers report frequent signal disruptions during cloudy weather, a flaw long tolerated as an industry standard.
The increase has also raised regulatory questions. Critics demand clarity on whether Ghana’s communications authorities reviewed the hike or evaluated MultiChoice’s service quality beforehand. In contrast to stricter jurisdictions requiring stakeholder consultations and proof of improved services before price adjustments, Ghana’s consumer protection framework remains underdeveloped, leaving little recourse for dissatisfied customers.
Consumer advocates highlight a recurring pattern of unilateral corporate decisions in poorly regulated markets, exacerbating public distrust. “Subscribers are paying more for the same shortcomings,” said one industry analyst, echoing sentiments that the hike reflects weak accountability mechanisms.
As some customers reconsider their subscriptions, pressure mounts on MultiChoice to address service gaps or risk attrition. The situation underscores broader calls for legislative reforms to empower regulators and enforce transparency in pricing.
Ghana’s consumer protection landscape, often criticized for favoring corporations, faces renewed scrutiny. Experts stress that robust laws could prevent arbitrary price surges while incentivizing service upgrades, ensuring citizens receive fair value in competitive markets. With digital alternatives gaining traction, the pressure is on traditional providers to adapt or lose relevance in an increasingly discerning market.
