Togo: WAEMU Telecom Regulators Gather in Lomé to Discuss Lowering Communication Costs in the Region

Telecom

Wednesday, 26 July 2023 10:00

Togo: WAEMU Telecom Regulators Gather in Lomé to Discuss Lowering Communication Costs in the Region

(Togo First) - Lomé currently hosts the 14th meeting of the Committee of National Telecommunications Regulators (CRTEL) of the Member States of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA). The meeting started on July 24 and ends on July 28.

Participants will define appropriate mechanisms to lower communication tariffs and the quality of telecom services across the region.

According to Michel Yaovi Galley, who heads Togo’s telecom watchdog, the meeting reflects CRTEL’s commitment to the sustainable transformation of living standards within the WAEMU. "Through this choice, it is clear that the UEMOA regulators' committee is placing particular emphasis on the well-being, interest, and protection of the consumer," Galley said.

He went on to specify that the data-driven regulation undertaken by his institution has resulted in a 63% reduction in mobile tariffs by Togo Cellulaire and a 71% reduction by Moov Africa. "We must fully play our role so that the electronic communications sector plays its part for the inclusive integral development of our states."

During the meeting, the participants will also discuss artificial intelligence; a technology, which, according to the CRTEL, is being used all over the world and which could “enable us to live better provided it is used responsibly.”

Proposals elaborated during the meeting will be submitted to the ministers of telecommunications of WAEMU States.

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