Ghanaian internet users are set to benefit from specially discounted data bundles on five key national holidays each year as part of new measures by the Ministry of Communications and Digital Technology to make internet access more affordable.
The Minister, Sam Nartey George, made the announcement at a press briefing on Tuesday, stating that the initiative is part of a broader strategy to reduce data costs and expand digital inclusion across the country.
The new “Holiday Data Bundles” will be available to all subscribers on:
Independence Day (March 6)
May Day (May 1)
Republic Day (July 1)
Founder’s Day (August 4)
Farmers’ Day (First Friday of December)
Mr. George revealed that the first test run of the policy, which took place on Independence Day, was a resounding success and served as a proof of concept. The next rollout is scheduled for May Day.
“In the interim, I have agreed with all three network operators to offer unique data bundle packages for these five national holidays,” he said, emphasizing that the Ministry was working closely with the National Communications Authority (NCA) and mobile network operators (MNOs) to fine-tune the implementation plan.
The initiative stems from the work of the Data Cost Pricing Committee, formed in February to develop a comprehensive roadmap to lower data costs in Ghana. The committee — made up of representatives from telcos, consumer groups, and regulatory bodies — completed its report in just 13 days.
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“Their report outlines short-, medium-, and long-term steps towards making data more affordable. I’ve reviewed the recommendations and handed them to the NCA for execution,” the Minister stated.
Beyond holiday bundles, Mr. George also disclosed that network operators have proposed targeted data packages for tertiary students, content creators, and gig workers. These plans are undergoing technical validation and are expected to be launched soon.
“All three MNOs have committed to this effort. They’ve submitted proposals to the Ministry and the Regulator, and we expect a public rollout once the NCA finalizes the requirements,” he added.
The new measures are seen as a step towards digital equity, especially for young people, freelancers, and creators who rely heavily on internet access for work and learning.
