The National Communications Authority (NCA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), is currently in discussions with stakeholders in The Gambia to advance the implementation of the ECOWAS Free Roaming initiative.
This initiative seeks to reduce telecommunications costs for travelers between Ghana and The Gambia, facilitating seamless communication and strengthening both economic and social ties between the two countries.
The meeting, which began on November 19, 2024, is set to conclude on November 21, 2024, with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement will pave the way for MNOs to initiate technical and regulatory discussions, ultimately leading to the implementation and launch of ECOWAS Roaming Regulations in the first half of 2025.
The NCA’s efforts are in line with its ongoing commitment to consumer protection and regional integration within the telecommunications sector.
Over the years, the NCA has led various initiatives aimed at safeguarding consumer interests, including the Billing Feedback Message, SIM Registration, Mobile Number Portability (MNP), and Significant Market Power (SMP) Regulations.
Additionally, measures such as UMTS 900 frequency deployment and the creation of NCA CERT reflect the Authority’s focus on consumer rights and ensuring a fair telecommunications landscape.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Ezer Osei Yeboah-Boateng, the Deputy Director General (Technical Operations) of the NCA and leader of the Ghana delegation, emphasized that the meeting was a major step toward regional integration. He highlighted Ghana’s role in promoting regional connectivity, referencing bilateral roaming agreements with neighboring countries such as Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, and Benin. “This collaboration with The Gambia marks the next phase in extending affordable telecom services across the region,” he said.
Prof. Yeboah-Boateng also emphasized that beyond reducing costs, the initiative represents a collective vision to create a West Africa where communication is inclusive, seamless, and fosters economic growth, tourism, and unity.
Mr. Solo Sima, Deputy Director General of The Gambia Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), expressed his optimism that the ECOWAS Free Roaming initiative would significantly contribute to connecting Africa and create new employment and business opportunities. He encouraged regulators to consider emerging technologies, such as 5G, and ensure that agreements remain flexible and consumer-focused.
Ghana’s ECOWAS Free Roaming Agreements with Neighboring Countries
Currently, Ghana has established ECOWAS Free Roaming agreements with Benin and Togo, allowing citizens of these countries to access affordable telecom services while traveling across borders. Ghanaians visiting Côte d’Ivoire, Benin, and Togo now benefit from the following:
- Affordable Rates: Travelers use local rates for SMS and voice calls, avoiding high roaming charges.
- Free Call Reception: Receiving both local and international calls is free, as roaming fees for call reception have been eliminated.
- Internet at Local Rates: Ghanaians can access the internet at the same rates as residents in these countries.
The ongoing discussions with The Gambia aim to extend these benefits to travelers between Ghana and The Gambia, promoting greater regional cooperation and improving affordability for all citizens.
