The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), has held a stakeholder engagement with broadcasters to advance discussions on a cost-sharing framework for Ghana’s Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) platform.
The meeting focused on establishing a sustainable pricing model for channel carriage, with the Minister reaffirming government’s commitment to a transparent and consultative approach. He emphasised that while the introduction of fees is necessary to sustain the platform, decisions will be taken in collaboration with industry players to ensure fairness and long-term viability.
Hon. George noted that Ghana’s DTT infrastructure has operated for years without achieving meaningful cost recovery, stressing the need for a clear pathway toward financial sustainability. He indicated that proposals presented are intended to guide discussions and accelerate consensus, with stakeholders given timelines to review and submit inputs.
The Minister further clarified that government will take a policy position on key structural issues, including the management of shared infrastructure and cost obligations, in the broader national interest. He reiterated that the DTT platform is not yet profit-making and should not be treated as a revenue-generating asset at this stage, but rather as critical national infrastructure requiring collective support.
On their part, Members of the Broadwelcomed the engagement but called for deeper consultation and clarity in the development of pricing models. They underscored the importance of transparency and inclusiveness, cautioning against decisions being perceived as predetermined without adequate industry participation.
Participants also highlighted the critical role of the DTT platform to their operations, noting that its sustainability is essential to the survival of the broadcasting sector. They expressed support for reforms that will strengthen the platform, while urging alignment with existing industry structures and operational realities.
The engagement forms part of ongoing efforts by the Ministry to conclude outstanding issues on DTT operations and introduce policy measures aimed at strengthening Ghana’s digital broadcasting ecosystem.
