The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), in collaboration with the National Communications Authority (NatCA) of Sierra Leone and the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) of The Gambia, has established a free-roaming agreement aimed at eradicating cross-border telecom charges and improving regional connectivity.
This landmark agreement was formalised during a three-day meeting in Freetown from January 29 to 31. It allows mobile users across Liberia, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia to communicate effortlessly without incurring roaming fees. This initiative aligns with the ECOWAS regulations and promotes regional economic collaboration, trade, and mobility.
LTA Acting Chairperson Abdullah L. Kamara emphasised that this initiative represents a transformative vision to stimulate economic growth and foster stronger regional connections. He stated, “This agreement allows our citizens to communicate freely while travelling, removing the burden of high roaming charges and the need for multiple SIM cards. It is a powerful catalyst for economic cooperation and enhanced mobility.”
Kamara called upon mobile service providers to adhere to the agreement to ensure that both businesses and individuals can gain the maximum benefit from this initiative.
The Free Roaming Initiative marks a vital advancement toward regional integration to make communication more affordable and accessible throughout ECOWAS countries. It is expected to reduce transaction expenses, support business growth, and increase access to digital services upon implementation.
The LTA and its regional partners will continue collaborating with mobile network operators to ensure a smooth rollout. Future phases of this initiative will involve finalising pricing arrangements with international carriers, paving the way for reduced mobile tariffs, thereby boosting tourism and invigorating economic activities within the region.
Wider adoption of free-roaming agreements across ECOWAS can significantly impact Africa’s projected digital economy, which is expected to reach US$180 billion by 2025. According to the “Economy Africa 2020” report by Google and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Africa’s Internet economy could contribute approximately 5.2% to the continent’s GDP by 2025, nearly US$180 billion.
