Cameroon’s TRB participates in ARTAC’s 10th Ordinary Session in Kinshasa

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye

A delegation from the Telecommunications Regulatory Board (TRB) of Cameroon, led by its Director General, Professor Philémon Zoo Zame, participated in the 10th Ordinary Session of the Conference of Central African Telecommunications Regulators, held in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The session focused on key regulatory, technological, and institutional priorities aimed at strengthening connectivity, security, and digital sovereignty across the Central African sub-region.

Discussions prominently addressed the growing role of non-geostationary satellite (NGSO) systems, particularly low-earth orbit constellations operated by providers such as Starlink, OneWeb, and Amazon Kuiper. Participants noted the significant potential of these technologies to expand broadband access, especially in rural and underserved areas, where mobile internet penetration remains below 30 percent in much of Central Africa.

However, regulators highlighted concerns associated with NGSO deployment, including implications for data sovereignty, competitive balance with local operators, lawful interception requirements, and potential interference with existing terrestrial networks. A high-level panel of experts recommended the development of a harmonized regulatory framework requiring NGSO providers to establish terrestrial gateways within ARTAC’s jurisdiction, comply with financial obligations similar to traditional operators, and ensure that citizens’ data remain stored within the African continent.

Digital financial security also featured prominently in the deliberations, as regulators examined rising risks linked to the rapid expansion of mobile money and electronic payment systems. Delegates endorsed recommendations from the International Telecommunication Union aimed at strengthening oversight mechanisms and enhancing consumer protection.

On regional interconnection, member states adopted a resolution mandating the effective implementation of free roaming across Central Africa by June 30, 2026. The measure is expected to facilitate cross-border mobility and support economic integration within the sub-region.

Beyond technical and regulatory matters, the session reviewed ARTAC’s institutional framework. Revised statutes, internal regulations, and financial rules were adopted, while the mandate of the Executive Committee was extended until December 2027 to ensure governance continuity.

Delegates also confirmed that the next extraordinary session will be held in Libreville, Gabon, where member states will finalize criteria for appointing the Executive Secretary and determining the organization’s headquarters.

A notable development during the opening ceremony was the signing of a roaming agreement between ARCEP Gabon and ARPTC, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance regional cooperation.

Established in 2004 following a resolution of the Central African Conference of Posts and Telecommunications, Conference of Central African Telecommunications Regulators brings together eight member states and serves as a key platform for regulatory harmonization and policy coordination in the region’s evolving digital landscape.