Somalia’s Communications Authority holds stakeholder consultation on consumer protection regulation
Date: 2026-02-16
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
The
National Communications Authority of Somalia has convened a one-day stakeholder
consultation to review and gather feedback on its draft Telecom Consumer
Protection Regulation, as part of efforts to strengthen oversight and enhance
consumer confidence in the country’s expanding digital market.
The
meeting brought together telecommunications operators, internet service
providers, submarine cable operators, consumer representatives, and other
sector stakeholders. Discussions focused on the policy rationale behind the
draft framework, its regulatory principles, and the practical implications of
implementation.
Director
General Mustafa Yasin Sheikh, in his opening remarks, underscored the
importance of consumer trust in sustaining Somalia’s digital transformation. He
stated that a fair, transparent, and accountable telecommunications environment
is critical for building public confidence, emphasizing that consumer
protection remains a shared responsibility between the regulator and service
providers.
According
to the Authority, the proposed regulation introduces defined safeguards for
consumer rights and service quality standards. It also seeks to reinforce
transparency in pricing and contractual terms, clarify operator obligations and
compliance requirements, and establish enforcement mechanisms, including
penalties designed to ensure sector-wide accountability.
Stakeholders
provided input on operational considerations, implementation timelines, and
compliance readiness. Participants also reviewed findings from a recent
consumer protection survey and examined a proposed roadmap for finalizing and
enforcing the regulation.
The
National Communications Authority indicated that stakeholder feedback will
inform revisions ahead of issuing the final Telecom Consumer Protection
Regulation, reiterating its commitment to promoting a competitive, secure, and
consumer-focused telecommunications sector in Somalia.
