Ghana’s Communications Minister, Samuel Nartey George, announced that Canal+ is in discussions to fully acquire MultiChoice by October 2025 and is working to address the ongoing dispute concerning DStv subscription fees in Ghana.
The Vivendi-owned company reached out to Minister George amid threats of a potential license suspension against MultiChoice Ghana, which has reportedly ignored a directive to reduce its prices by 30%.
“Canal+ has shown a more constructive attitude compared to MultiChoice,” George shared, highlighting their willingness to negotiate verbally but stressing the need for formal written agreements. “Public policy cannot rely solely on verbal assurances.”
The National Communications Authority (NCA) had set a deadline for MultiChoice to comply by September 8. The authority warned of suspension following a 15% price increase in April, which the government has demanded be reversed.
Additionally, George criticised MultiChoice for its lack of action against cross-border piracy, specifically pointing out the influx of unregulated Nigerian DStv decoders in Ghana’s market. “While Starlink restricts unlicensed devices, DStv claims it cannot manage this issue,” he stated, cautioning that such regulation gaps undermine the country’s revenue and weaken regulatory control.
As Canal+ moves towards completing its acquisition of MultiChoice—having already obtained approval from South African antitrust authorities—the minister reiterated Ghana’s position: “Devices operating outside local regulations are invisible to the state.”
This situation could establish important precedents for foreign media companies operating under the evolving digital trade regulations of the AfCFTA.
