The National Communications Authority (NCA) has begun implementing the ECOWAS “Free Roaming Initiative” to enable residents traveling outside of Ghana save money on telecommunications services.
The existing agreement between Ghana, Benin, and Togo would enable residents in those countries to make and receive calls, send SMS, and access the internet at a reasonable cost via Mobile Network Operators.
Speaking at the unveiling in Accra, Deputy Minister of Communication Charles Acheampong said that the effort will strengthen Ghana’s current ties with Benin and Togo.
He said that the “Free Roaming” project will provide “affordable and seamless” connectivity across West Africa’s three borders, allowing individuals to remain connected “without the burden of high roaming charges or the inconvenience of [owning] multiple SIM cards.”
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“By enabling affordable and seamless communication across our borders, we are not only enhancing the convenience of travel and business but also strengthening the social and economic fabric of our nations.
“…This initiative symbolises our dedication to advancing and strengthening regional integration within the ECOWAS community. It also reinforces the ECOWAS treaty’s ideals and demonstrates the effectiveness of collaboration,” he stated.
Beyond communication, he said that the agreement will have a knock-on impact on cross-border commerce, economic activity, and stimulate increased travel inside the ECOWAS sub-region.
Mr Acheampong advocated for “stability and security” in telecommunications networks when the ECOWAS “Free Roaming Initiative” was being implemented.
“Cybersecurity threats are a reality in the digital age and it is incumbent upon us to implement robust measures to protect the privacy and data of our citizens. By working together, sharing best practices, and investing in technological advancements, we can create a secure and resilient regional communication ecosystem,” he said.
He praised implementing partners in Ghana, Benin, and Togo and invited additional West African nations to join the program.
The Deputy Minister directed stakeholders to implement measures such as conducting consumer surveys and implementing “Billing Feedback Systems” to monitor the initiative’s progress.
Dr. Joe Anokye, Director General of the NCA, said that the Authority will monitor use of the ECOWAS Free Roaming Initiative and collect input to influence future regulatory actions and decisions.
He praised the three nations’ efforts and said that the NCA and Mobile Telecommunication Companies will take measures to raise public awareness about the program.
Mr Yaw Boamah Baafi, Vice Chair, ECOWAS Roaming Implementation Committee, Ghana, said that the “Free Roaming Initiative” will endure 30 days or 300 minutes, as specified in the rules.
He said that some features of the agreement would enable residents outside their own nations to get free calls, and that conversations were underway in other African countries about the initiative’s adoption.
Mr Herve Guedegbe, Executive Secretary, ARCEP-Benin, Mr Michel Yaovi Galley, Director General of ARCEP-Togo, and officials from telecommunication firms in Ghana, Benin, and Togo attended the event and expressed their enthusiasm for the idea.
