ABUJA, Nigeria (BG) – The 16th Meeting of Focal Points of National Regulatory Authorities (NRAs) on the implementation of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Regulation on Roaming concluded on Nov. 28, 2024, in Praia, Cabo Verde, according to a statement by the West African bloc on Tuesday.

The two-day meeting focused on evaluating progress in implementing Regulation C/REG.21/12/17, which aims to reduce the costs of mobile voice, SMS, and internet services for citizens travelling across the region.

The Regulation, which facilitates roaming on public mobile communications networks within the ECOWAS region, is designed to foster regional cooperation and promote seamless communication among West African nations.

Progress in Implementation
The meeting validated progress made by ECOWAS Member States in implementing the Regulation on Roaming.

Several Member States, including Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Benin, Burkina Faso, and Mali, have successfully reduced roaming tariffs for citizens travelling within the region.

The Gambia and Sierra Leone are making strides toward launching community roaming services, further expanding the benefits of reduced costs.

Mobile operators in Cabo Verde were also recognized for aligning their roaming tariffs with the Regulation, enabling citizens to benefit from affordable communication while travelling across the ECOWAS space.

Draft Framework and 2025 Coordination Plan
During the meeting, the focal points refined a draft regional framework for collaboration on fraud management to address challenges within the Regulation’s implementation.

Also, a plan for continued coordination among NRAs was agreed upon, ensuring further progress in 2025.

This meeting represents a significant milestone in the region’s efforts to consolidate regional cooperation and provide ECOWAS citizens with seamless and affordable communication services.