West African telecommunications enter a new phase thanks to the Ghana-Gambia partnership.
Ghana and The Gambia Sign Historic Telecommunications Agreement
Ghana and The Gambia have forged a landmark agreement to implement the ECOWAS Free Roaming initiative, a move that is expected to revolutionize cross-border communication between the two nations and strengthen regional cooperation.
The agreement, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding, was established through Ghana's Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation, Mobile Network Operators, and the National Communications Authority (NCA). This collaboration extends beyond cost reduction, symbolizing a commitment to creating a unified West Africa where communication facilitates tourism, economic growth, and regional unity.
Professor Ezer Osei Yeboah-Boateng, Ghana's Deputy Director General for Technical Operations, considers this collaboration crucial for regional integration. He emphasized the importance of maintaining flexible, customer-focused regulations while adapting to emerging technologies like 5G.
Citizens traveling between participating countries will enjoy significant benefits, including local rates for voice calls and SMS services, free incoming calls, and internet services at local rates. These advancements support the fundamental rights guaranteed under the NCA Act.
The NCA has already implemented various consumer-friendly measures, such as Significant Market Power Regulations, SIM Registration, and Mobile Number Portability. Technical innovations, including UMTS 900 frequency, Billing Verification Systems, and technological neutrality, are central to the NCA's mission.
The telecommunications agreement builds upon existing successful partnerships within the ECOWAS region. Ghana already maintains similar agreements with Benin, Togo, and Côte d'Ivoire. Technical and regulatory discussions will precede the launch of ECOWAS Roaming Regulations during the first half of 2025.
Solo Sima, The Gambia's Public Utilities Regulatory Authority Deputy Director General, emphasized the initiative's potential to generate employment and economic opportunities. This expansion of the agreement marks another significant step toward comprehensive regional digital integration and economic development in West Africa.
The partnership aims to enhance accessibility for all citizens traveling between Ghana and The Gambia, contributing to the initiative's goal of strengthening regional cooperation and fostering a unified West Africa.
