The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), in collaboration with the National Communications Authority of Sierra Leone (NatCA) and The Gambia’s Public Utility Regulatory Authority (PURA), has announced the groundbreaking removal of roaming charges for calls between the three nations.
This initiative aims to enhance regional connectivity and bolster economic integration among Liberia, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia, significantly impacting the lives of millions.
The decision was made official on March 20, 2025, as part of the regional integration effort governed by the ECOWAS Regulation C/REG 21/12/17. Effective May 2, 2025, surcharges on calls between Liberia and Sierra Leone will be abolished, followed by the removal of roaming fees on calls between Liberia and The Gambia beginning July 1, 2025.
The development follows the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) in January, showcasing the commitment of the three nations to improve telecommunications and support economic growth across their borders.
At a ceremonial signing held in Freetown, LTA Chairman Abdullah Kamara emphasized the strategic significance of the agreements, stating, “This signing marks a significant step in our collective effort to enhance regional connectivity. With these MOUs, we are making decisive progress towards implementing the ECOWAS Regulation on roaming within the Region, an initiative aimed at eliminating high roaming charges.”
The trilateral agreement aims to benefit not only tourists and travelers but also citizens conducting business across borders. With a combined population of approximately 16 million—Liberia (5 million), Sierra Leone (8 million), and The Gambia (2.4 million)—the potential for increased communication and trade between these nations is substantial.
In terms of economic impact, the combined gross domestic product (GDP) of these countries is estimated at around $16 billion, providing a solid foundation for enhanced trade and investment opportunities. The removal of roaming charges means individuals can make calls, send SMS, and utilize data services at local rates without needing a new SIM card, facilitating an unprecedented level of ease for communication.
Under the new agreements, mobile network operators within the three countries are encouraged to develop direct links for intra-community roaming traffic, thereby promoting seamless connectivity.
The MOUs stipulate that these operators may charge roaming service providers a wholesale rate not exceeding 80% of the highest retail rate for data usage and 60% for calls and SMS, ensuring affordable options for consumers.
With the anticipated implementation of this initiative, government officials and industry stakeholders are optimistic about the potential for increased tourism, trade, and collaborative business ventures across Liberia, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia.
The easing of telecommunications costs is expected to foster economic resilience and growth in the region, furthering the objectives of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to promote regional integration and development.
