The government of Ghana is set to embark on establishing a free-roaming system between Ghana and Nigeria, announced by the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful. This initiative follows the successful implementation of the ECOWAS free roaming initiative between Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire in June 2023.
Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire made history as the first countries in ECOWAS to adopt the free-roaming initiative, allowing subscribers to receive calls without incurring roaming fees while visiting the respective countries. Additionally, calls made between the two countries are charged at local rates. Now, plans are underway to expand this service to include Togo, Benin, and the Gambia.
Minister Owusu-Ekuful expressed optimism about further integration, stating that discussions will soon commence with Nigeria, considering it has the largest traffic. Although establishing the free-roaming system with Nigeria may present some challenges, it is a significant step towards enhancing connectivity and communication within the ECOWAS region.
The free roaming system aims to facilitate seamless communication for travellers and reduce international roaming charges, ultimately fostering closer ties and cooperation among ECOWAS member states. Minister Owusu-Ekuful emphasized the importance of regional collaboration in realizing the full potential of such initiatives, highlighting the benefits they bring to citizens and businesses across borders.