WATRA
WATRA works with national telecommunication regulatory authorities in 16 member states in West Africa to promote the adoption of regulations that stimulate investment in telecommunication infrastructure, deliver more affordable communication services to more citizens, enable faster and more secure economic transactions, and facilitate wider and easier access to public services. Together, we work to improve telecommunication sector regulation for economic transformation and social development of all communities in West Africa.
Digital Economy & Telecomms Regulation Trends
WATRA Updates: Governments & Regulatory Authorities
Nigeria Hosts 3rd ECOWAS Regional Cybersecurity Hackathon
Nigeria is currently hosting the 3rd ECOWAS Regional Cybersecurity Hackathon, a 30-hour event running from 15th to 16th October 2024.
Here's why MTN Benin lost more than 900,000 subscribers in three months
In just three months, MTN Benin has lost more than 900 thousand subscribers. In short, from 9,383,796 mobile subscribers as of March 30, 2024, the number of mobile subscriptions of the operator MTN Benin fell to 8,467,023 as of June 30, 2024, a decrea se of 916,773 mobile subscriptions.
NCC, Starlink Tariff Feud Rattles Telecom Industry
The brewing conflict between the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and Elon Musk’s Starlink, alongside local mobile network operators (MNOs), over a recent tariff increase has gradually grown into one of concern.
Nigeria’s telecom sector attracts $304m in 6 months
Nigeria’s telecommunications sector saw resurgence in foreign direct investment (FDI) in the first half of 2024, attracting a total of $304 million, more than doubling the $134.75 million recorded for the entire year of 2023.
Forex volatility threatening growth in telecom sector- operators
Telecom operators have raised concerns over the crippling effects of forex volatility on their operations, warning that without swift government intervention to create a more supportive business environment, the sector risks stagnation and potential collapse.
MTN CFO Kadiri warns of telecom industry risks without policy change
MTN Nigeria, alongside other multinational business leaders, has urged the Federal Government to establish equitable regulations to support sustainable business investments in the country.
NCC telecoms regulations: Telcos’ push for price hikes and industry sustainability
The Association of Licensed Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria has emphasised the importance of strict adherence to regulatory guidelines mandating the country’s telecoms operators to obtain approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) before effecting any tariff adjustments in the ecosystem.
5 African countries recognised as cyber security role models
Cyberattacks in Africa are on the rise as the region undergoes greater digitisation. Numerous countries face significant cyber threats due to inadequate systems and weak regulatory frameworks. Nonetheless, some nations have developed advanced cybersecurity systems.
CBN urges banks to invest heavily in cybersecurity
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has urged banks in the country to make significant investments in cybersecurity to safeguard depositors’ savings from hackers.
Digital Security Classroom (DIGISEC): ARTCI's strategic reinforcement to support digital security awarenessrlink Tariff Feud and telecom Industry
As part of the National Digital Security Awareness and Awareness Program known as “DigiSec” (Digital Security Classroom), ARTCI offers a range of free training modules that help consumers of electronic communications services stay up to date on cyber threats, and cybersecurity professionals strengthen their skills.
NCC, Starlink Tariff Feud and telecom Industry
An imminent feud is underway between telecommunications regulator, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on one hand and Starlink and Mobile Network Operators ( MNOS) on the other.
Telecom Sector Attracts $304m FDI In H1
The Nigerian telecom sector has experienced a notable surge in Foreign Direct Investments (FDI), drawing $304 million in the first half of 2024, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
Telecom executive pushes for right-of-way fee cuts
The Chief Executive Officer of Lifinet, Abraham Oluwambe, has called for a reduction in Right of Way charges as part of the implementation of the recently passed Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) order.
Experts Call for Urgent Cybersecurity Regulations
Amid growing concerns about the vulnerability of Liberia’s communications sector to cyber threats, experts are calling for the swift implementation of cybersecurity regulations and policies.
MTN urges fair regulations, level playing field in telecom sector
MTN Nigeria and other multinational business owners have appealed to the Federal Government to create a level playing field to enable businesses to sustain their investments in the country.
Free roaming effective between Togo and Ghana
As in Benin and Côte d’Ivoire, mobile phone subscribers in Togo have been able to experience free roaming in Ghana since October 9. The Electronic Communications and Postal Regulatory Authority (ARCEP) and the National Communications Authority (NCA) of Ghana have implemented the agreement signed on November 1, 2023 , making free roaming effective for travelers roaming in both countries.
LASG seeks action on cybersecurity as awareness month kicks off
The Lagos State Government is joining the rest of the World to mark the Y2024 Cyber Security Awareness Month, with a challenge to all to prioritise online safety. According to the government, cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility.
Cybercrime centre seeks collaboration to bolster cybersecurity
The Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) has called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to strengthen the nation’s cyber security.
Mali lifts Starlink ban, Liberia says welcome
Mali’s military government has decided to lift its seven-month ban on Starlink satellite Internet kits, letting citizens reconnect to the service for six months while they work on a new regulatory framework.
NITDA Begins Cyber Security Awareness Month
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has started the 2024 cyber security awareness campaign. A statement from the office of the director-general of NITDA, Malam Kashifu Inuwa, said the awareness would focus on the growing of cyber-attacks.
WATRA Updates: Governments & Regulatory Authorities
Regulatory Policy Developments
May 8, 2024
Regulatory Policy Developments
May 7, 2024
Regulatory Policy Developments
March 25, 2024
ABOUT WATRA
WATRA was established in 2002 as a result of the need for a common platform for the telecommunications and ICT regulators in the West African region to exchange information, share best practices, and coordinate their actions.
WATRA operates under the legal framework of the ECOWAS Treaty, the Supplementary Act on Telecommunications and ICT, the Protocol on the Establishment of WATRA, and the Constitution and Rules of Procedure of WATRA.
WATRA MEMBERS
