Ghana has
officially launched the bilateral Economic Community of West African States
(ECOWAS) Free Roaming initiative between Ghana, Togo, and Benin. This
development follows the successful implementation of the ECOWAS Roaming
Initiative between Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire.
The Deputy
Minister for Communications and Digitalisation Hon. Charles Acheampong speaking
during a brief ceremony in Accra noted that this initiative marks a new chapter
in Ghana's relationship with its neighbors. "This Initiative will allow
our citizens to stay connected seamlessly, without the burden of high roaming
charges or the inconvenience of multiple SIMs," he stated.
The launch
event, held at the NCA Tower, was attended by key stakeholders, including Dr.
Joe Anokye, Director General of the National Communications Authority (NCA),
and representatives from Benin's Electronic Communications and Postal
Regulatory Authority (ARCEP BENIN) and Togo's Regulatory Authority for
Electronic Communications (ARCEP Togo).
In his remark, Dr.
Anokye highlighted the initiative's significance, stating that it embodies a
shared commitment to bringing West Africans closer together. The success of
this initiative is attributed to the diligent efforts of Implementation
Committees from Ghana, Benin, and Togo.
The ECOWAS Free
Roaming Initiative is a vital step towards regional integration, with the
ultimate goal of creating a more united, connected, and prosperous West Africa.
With the support of Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Ghana, Benin, and Togo,
this initiative is poised to benefit the Ghanaian populace and pave the way for
more bilateral agreements with other ECOWAS member states.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
