NatCA Implements ECOWAS Free Roaming Protocol To Boost Regional Connectivity
The National Communications Authority of Sierra Leone (NatCA) has announced a major step forward in regional digital integration with the expansion of free roaming services for short-term travellers within the West African sub-region. This strategic development falls under the framework of the ECOWAS Free Roaming Initiative and the Abidjan Protocol, both aimed at enhancing seamless communication across borders.
According to a press release issued on August 6, Sierra Leonean travellers visiting Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, and Liberia will now benefit from:
• Free incoming calls for up to 30 days
• Outgoing calls and SMS at local rates
• International rates only applying when calling non-local SIMs
Additionally, under the Abidjan Protocol, Orange network users roaming in Benin, Burkina Faso, Mali, Senegal, and Togo will enjoy:
• 300 free minutes for incoming calls
• Regular roaming charges will resume after the free quota is exhausted.
NatCA credited the progress to strong collaboration with mobile network providers, enabling the implementation of roaming agreements that support affordable and accessible communication across the region.
These announcements followed a high-level regional conference themed “Connecting Nations, Empowering Citizens,” hosted recently in Liberia. The event brought together regulatory bodies, telecommunications operators, development agencies, and policy stakeholders from across West Africa.
Leading the Sierra Leonean delegation was Mr. Amara Brewah, Director-General of NatCA, who reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s deep commitment to regional digital integration. Two landmark achievements were highlighted during the event:
1. Launch of seamless roaming services between Sierra Leone and Liberia
2. Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on roaming agreements with Côte d’Ivoire
“These developments are more than just about cheaper calls. They are pivotal for enhancing mobility, supporting cross-border trade, and driving regional economic integration,” said Mr. Brewah.
He emphasized that the initiative aligns with ECOWAS’ broader goals of creating a digitally connected West Africa, where citizens and businesses benefit from uninterrupted and affordable communication services, regardless of national boundaries.
NatCA reaffirmed its commitment to working with both local and international stakeholders to ensure Sierra Leone continues to play a leadership role in regional telecommunications reform.
As West Africa deepens its digital transformation efforts, Sierra Leone’s expanded participation in the ECOWAS Free Roaming Initiative is expected to lower communication costs, strengthen intra-regional connectivity, and foster greater socio-economic inclusion across member states.
