The National Communication Authority (NCA) has assured the public that data prices will reduce by the last quarter of the year.
This announcement follows widespread criticism and calls for the dissolution of the NCA board, partly due to MTN’s classification as a Significant Market Power (SMP), which some argue has led to unreliable data supply and high costs.
In a statement, the NCA clarified that, the SMP classification aims to promote fair competition, not to burden MTN’s operations.
The Authority explained that, measures such as unbalanced interconnection rates, tariff parity, and technology neutrality will foster competition, innovation, and consumer protection.
Speaking on Citi FM, the Director General of the NCA, Dr. Joe Anokye, said data prices will likely decrease with the introduction of the NGIC wholesale carrier-neutral open access network.
This network, expected to be launched by the last quarter of the year, will enable operators like AT, Telecel, and MTN to purchase bulk data without upgrading towers or equipment, leading to increased efficiency and reduced costs.
Dr. Anokye expressed optimism, saying, “Data prices are expected to go down, especially with the NGIC wholesale carrier-neutral open access. AT, Telecel, and even MTN will be able to buy bulk data without needing to upgrade towers or purchase new equipment to provide 4G, as another entity will handle that aspect.”
“They are supposed to launch by the last quarter of the year, and going from there we begin adding more towers. I think we should be hopeful.”
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