EAC moves to establish harmonised regional mobile roaming framework to cut cross-border communication costs

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye

The East African Community (EAC) has initiated regional engagements in Dar es Salaam aimed at developing a harmonised Regional Mobile Roaming Framework designed to reduce cross-border communication costs and improve seamless connectivity across member states.

The initiative seeks to address persistent high roaming charges that continue to affect traders, travellers and businesses operating within the region, where mobile communication remains essential for trade facilitation, tourism and the movement of people.

Opening the meeting, EAC Deputy Secretary General Hon. Andrea Ariik Malueth noted that digital connectivity has become a key enabler of regional integration, economic transformation and cross-border trade within the Community.

He emphasised that cross-border traders, transport operators, tourists and businesses rely heavily on affordable and reliable mobile services, adding that the proposed framework is intended to remove practical barriers that hinder economic interaction and mobility across East Africa.

The proposed Regional Mobile Roaming Framework is expected to support more affordable voice, SMS and data services across borders while strengthening digital inclusion and enhancing regional trade efficiency.

EAC officials say the initiative forms part of broader efforts to deepen integration and improve the ease of doing business within the region through improved digital infrastructure and regulatory harmonisation.