Editorial
Cost of data, a headache for Ghanaians
Dear Editor,
It is an undeniable fact that many Ghanaians are currently feeling the impact of the economic challenges of the country, which reflects in the cost of transportation, food, and rent.
Among all of the costs, that of internet data remains one that had become unbearable for Ghanaians.
The amount of money spent on internet data on a monthly basis is very high and takes a greater percentage of the monthly wages.
For instance, a friend who earned a monthly wage of GH¢1,500 spends about GH₵500 on internet data.
Interestingly, the telecommunication companies have all introduced internet packages for sale for the sake of competition but most of these data packages do not last.
I recall an experience where a gentleman lamented bitterly about how a monthly data internet bundle got finished within two weeks despite the high cost.
Internet data has become very essential and a daily part of human life as it drives business operations, education, and social interactions.
A recent research conducted by a UK-based research firm Cable. Co, indicated that the average cost of 1GB data in Ghana stands at 0.40 USD.
Moreover, the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications has attributed the high cost of data to factors such as high taxes, infrastructure expenses, and regulatory prices.
Although Ghana has been ranked
as one of the countries with low-cost internet data, the concerns raised by Ghanaians underscore the need for the government to address the high cost of internet and mobile data.
This should be a matter of concern for the Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Mr Sam Nartey George.
He understands the plight of Ghanaians already so I expect him to find ways to get the telecommunication companies to reduce the cost of data as we drive the country towards digitalisation.
Namoale Emmanuel,
Nsawam
Dear Editor
I wish to use your esteemed platform to welcome Mr Carlos Queiroz, our new coach for our senior national male football team, the Black Stars.
We have read a lot about him and I think looking at his CV, he represents our biggest ‘catch’ in this business.
When his name came up initially, some of us doubted whether we could land him considering our scarce resources.
A coach with experiences with Real Madrid, Manchester United at club sides and national team romance with South Africa and Iran speaks volumes of what he brings to the table.
However, we must not forget that CVs don’t play football. Football is played on the pitch and it is therefore the reason why the noise about his arrival must end and watch out for what he brings to the table.
Currently, we don’t have players we could call world class. Those that comes near that label like Mohammed Kudus and Mohammed Salisu are injured.
The only player making waves in Europe at the moment is Antoine Semenyo of Manchester City.
Carlos Queiroz is not coming as a magician. He would need players who are committed and very good enough. At this moment, we should be praying and supporting him to get the best out of our players.
Directly, I want to appeal to him to take a serious look at the players in individually and access their qualities before bringing them on board.
Some of the players are very good but have just failed or struggled to perform in the Black Stars jersey. One of his task must be to break that ice.
We need nothing bust the best for the World Cup. As Ghanaians let’s support Queiroz to get the best out of the players available.
Andy Muller,
Accra
Dear Editor,
The visit of the president, John Dramani Mahama to the construction site of the La General Hospital was one that provided hope for Ghanaians, especially those within the La and Osu areas.
The project was started under the previous administration but grinded to a halt. Several demonstrations were carried out in a bid to get government to speed up work on the facility.
When this new government took over, that cloud of uncertainty persisted owing to how projects started by a particular government were abandoned by incumbents.
But we have seen something different this time. The government of John Dramani Mahama has shown commitment to complete the project.
The crowd that gathered on his inspection of works on the project clearly speaks of how important the project is for them.
It is my prayer they speed up work on the facility and complete it on time for the people to travel shorter distance to access healthcare.
Atswei Rosalind,
La
