On October 9, 2024, the Deputy Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Hon. Charles Acheampong, launched a bilateral ECOWAS Free Roaming initiative that connects Ghana with Togo and Benin at the NCA Tower. This event was celebrated as a progression from the previously successful ECOWAS Roaming Initiative between Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, which allowed citizens to utilize mobile services in one another’s territories without incurring international roaming charges. The Deputy Minister emphasized the importance of this initiative, highlighting how it reflects a new phase in collaboration and communication within the West African region. He noted that such efforts aim to eliminate barriers imposed by borders, fostering a more integrated community in which people can engage in businesses and social interactions without hindrance.
The significance of launching the roaming initiative extends beyond technology; it represents a strategic move towards regional unity and connectivity. Hon. Acheampong remarked that this partnership will spare citizens from hefty roaming costs for the initial 30 consecutive days in the respective countries, potentially encouraging heightened travel between the nations. The Deputy Minister encouraged the National Communications Authority (NCA) to develop metrics to monitor the initiative’s progress, underlining that continuous assessment is essential for gauging the effectiveness of services offered to citizens. This pursuit of measurable outcomes is vital for ensuring that the expectations set forth are met, consequently enhancing the quality of communication across borders.
Dr. Joe Anokye, the Director General of the NCA, spoke positively about the initiative as a collective effort that embodies the shared goals of West African countries. He articulated that this endeavor aims to create an environment of seamless communication throughout the ECOWAS states. Dr. Anokye recognized the importance of the initiative in fostering closer ties among the peoples of West Africa and commended the hard work and dedication exhibited by the Implementation Committees from Ghana, Benin, and Togo. His insights reinforced the notion that successful collaboration is essential for realizing the broader vision of interconnectedness within the region.
Contributions from various officials at the event illustrated the collaborative spirit underpinning the initiative. Dr. Hervé Coovi Guedegbe, Executive Secretary of the Electronic Communications and Postal Regulatory Authority of Benin (ARCEP BENIN), highlighted that the launch represents a significant milestone in cooperation between Ghana and Benin and underscores the importance of regional integration within ECOWAS. He advocated for a more unified West Africa, emphasizing the vital nature of such initiatives in advancing both connection and cooperation among member states.
Mr. Michel Yaovi Galley, the Director General of Togo’s Regulatory Authority for Electronic Communications (ARCEP Togo), acknowledged the critical roles played by regulatory leaders in fostering bilateral agreements. He emphasized the necessity of collaboration among the Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) from Ghana, Benin, and Togo in making the ECOWAS Roaming Initiative a reality. Mr. Galley’s recognition of the MNOs’ efforts signifies the importance of stakeholder cooperation in achieving regional goals. His remarks encapsulate the spirit of teamwork necessary for the successful implementation of cross-border roaming agreements.
In conclusion, the ECOWAS Roaming Initiative is a historic step towards achieving a more interconnected West Africa, with far-reaching implications for reducing costs and improving communication among citizens of the member nations. The leaders involved have expressed hope that this initial success will serve as a foundation for further collaborative agreements. The NCA and other regulatory bodies are encouraged to continue their efforts in fostering cooperation, paving the way for more bilateral agreements within the ECOWAS framework. This initiative not only symbolizes shared aspirations among West African nations but also seeks to provide citizens with the convenience and accessibility they deserve in an increasingly interconnected world. As Ghana, Togo, and Benin move forward with this initiative, the focus remains on nurturing partnerships that enhance mobility, communication, and regional integration.
