Niger, Togo to finalise free-roaming deal for travellers

Niger and Togo are set to finalise a bilateral free-roaming partnership, enabling electronic communications services for travellers between the two nations. This development mirrors agreements signed by Mali and Benin, Togo, with Niger now joining this group of countries.

In October 2023, Benin and Togo entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enable free international mobile network roaming between the two countries by ECOWAS regulations. The implementation of this agreement was scheduled to commence in January 2024.

Advancements in Free-Roaming Agreements Across West Africa

Benin has committed to establishing free roaming with Ghana, starting from the 1st of July 2024, to reduce travel communication costs.

In November 2023, the National Communications Authority of Ghana and Togo’s electronic communications authority agreed to provide bilateral roaming services under the ECOWAS “free” regulations. The implementation of this agreement was slated for March 2024.

Furthermore, Togo and Mali formalised a free-roaming partnership in December 2023, as confirmed by the telecom authorities of both countries. As per this agreement, mobile users travelling between Togo and Mali will enjoy free calls for 30 days of their visit.

Under this agreement, cell phone users journeying between Togo and Mali will benefit from free calls during the initial 30 days of their stay. This initiative not only promotes seamless communication but also facilitates economic and social interactions across borders.

The free-roaming partnership aligns with broader regional efforts to eliminate communication barriers and foster closer ties among West African nations. By prioritising affordable and accessible mobile services, Togo and Mali aim to enhance connectivity for citizens, businesses, and travellers, contributing to regional integration and development.

This collaborative effort sets a positive precedent for future telecom agreements within the ECOWAS region, encouraging other member states to explore similar initiatives to promote cross-border communication and cooperation.

Enhancing Telecom Cooperation Across West Africa

Togo has established a similar partnership with Côte d’Ivoire, and more countries are expected to join this collaborative initiative.

Furthermore, the mission undertaken by Niger’s delegates aimed to gain insights into Togo’s telecom regulation techniques, particularly the data-driven regulatory approach facilitated by digital platforms and certification processes.

These partnerships and initiatives follow confirmation by Aliyu Yusuf Aboki, the Executive Secretary of the West Africa Telecommunications Regulators Assembly (WATRA), in May 2023. He revealed that 13 ECOWAS member states have revised their telecom regulations to eliminate roaming surcharges. This strategic move will bolster cross-border trade and economic activities while mitigating connectivity and data access challenges.

Aliyu Yusuf Aboki emphasised the significance of this development, stating that it enables traders in West Africa to seamlessly conduct business activities across borders without concerns about increased communication costs.

In 2016, the West African Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (WATRA) announced the elimination of high roaming costs for telephone users in West African countries. This move marked a pivotal step towards enhancing communication accessibility and affordability for residents, businesses, and travellers within the region. By eliminating excessive roaming charges, WATRA’s decision contributed to fostering closer ties among West African countries, promoting economic activities, and facilitating seamless cross-border communication. This initiative has had a positive impact on regional integration efforts and has empowered individuals to stay connected without financial barriers.