Ghana’s National Communications Authority (NCA), in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), has launched negotiations with The Gambia to implement the ECOWAS Free Roaming Initiative. This landmark collaboration aims to reduce the cost of telecommunications for citizens travelling between the two nations, fostering economic ties, seamless communication, and regional integration.
Key Outcomes of the Initiative
The three-day meeting, which concludes on November 21, 2024, will result in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two countries. This MoU will enable technical and regulatory discussions, paving the way for the full implementation of the ECOWAS Roaming Regulations by mid-2025.
Under this agreement, citizens travelling between Ghana and The Gambia can expect:
- Affordable Roaming Rates: Local rates for voice calls and SMS across borders.
- Free Incoming Calls: Elimination of charges for receiving both local and international calls.
- Internet at Local Prices: Access to data services at rates similar to those enjoyed by residents.
A Step Toward Regional Integration
Professor Ezer Osei Yeboah-Boateng, Deputy Director General for Technical Operations at NCA, emphasised that this collaboration extends Ghana’s leadership in promoting regional connectivity. Ghana has successfully implemented similar agreements with Benin, Togo, and Côte d’Ivoire, where affordable roaming services have been a game-changer for consumers.
“This partnership symbolises a collective resolve to create a West Africa where communication fosters economic growth, tourism, and unity,” said Prof. Yeboah-Boateng.
Solo Sima, Deputy Director General of The Gambia Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), echoed this sentiment, highlighting the potential for employment creation, business opportunities, and enhanced digital infrastructure. He also stressed the need to adapt agreements to emerging technologies like 5G to ensure flexibility and long-term consumer benefits.
Ghana Collaborates to Expand ECOWAS Free Roaming to The Gambiahttps://t.co/45VfmQAgmD pic.twitter.com/dhkA7yq46o
— NCA Ghana (@NCAGhana) November 20, 2024
Ghana’s Track Record in ECOWAS Free Roaming
Ghana has spearheaded regional telecom collaboration, with agreements already delivering benefits to citizens travelling to Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, and Benin:
- Local Rates: Ghanaians can make calls, send SMS, and use data at domestic rates in partner countries.
- Free Call Reception: Receiving both local and international calls incurs no charges.
- Affordable Data Access: Internet usage is charged at local rates, making cross-border travel seamless and cost-effective.
Broader Implications for West Africa
The expansion of the ECOWAS Free Roaming Initiative is a significant milestone in realising the regional body’s vision of economic self-sufficiency and a unified trade bloc. By facilitating affordable cross-border communication, the initiative strengthens trade, tourism, and social connections, contributing to the broader goals of digital transformation and economic integration across West Africa.
This collaboration highlights the commitment of Ghana and The Gambia to building a connected, inclusive, and prosperous West Africa. As both nations prepare for the full rollout of the roaming regulations in 2025, they are setting a precedent for the region’s digital future.
About the National Communications Authority (NCA)
The NCA was established under the National Communications Authority Act, 2008 (Act 769), and is responsible for regulating electronic communications in Ghana. Through consumer-friendly measures such as SIM Registration, Mobile Number Portability, and Billing Verification Systems, the NCA continues to lead initiatives that protect consumer rights and advance regional integration in telecommunications.
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