(Ecofin Agency) - The growing reliance on digital communication comes with challenges such as poor service quality, high costs, and limited accountability. Protecting consumers is vital to maintaining trust, boosting digital adoption, and closing the digital divide.

On Friday, November 22, 2024, the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) officially launched the Consumers Protection Regulations, an initiative to ensure that telecommunications service users in Liberia receive value for their money. The regulations, widely referred to as "The People's Regulations," were signed in a ceremony in Gompa City, Nimba County, by the LTA's acting Board of Commissioners.

Patrick Honnah, the LTA's Acting Commissioner for Consumers, Public Affairs, and Universal Access, highlighted that the regulations will take effect 60 days after the signing, giving Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) time to make necessary adjustments to comply with the new standards.

Commissioner Honnah emphasized that the regulations are designed to address consumer concerns and ensure fair practices in the telecommunications industry. He noted that the initiative underscores the LTA’s commitment to empowering consumers and promoting transparency and accountability within the sector

The launch event, attended by local government officials, civil society organizations, and student representatives, marked a significant milestone in consumer protection in the telecommunications sector.

Liberia scored 37.1 in the ICT Development Index 2024 by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) which measures the level of development of the ICT sector. The introduction of Consumers Protection Regulations aligns with the need to improve service quality and transparency in the ICT sector. Strengthening consumer rights can address issues that may hinder Liberia’s ability to improve its ICT rankings, such as unreliable services and high costs.

The initiative aligns with Liberia's Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Policy (2019-2024), which aims to drive economic development through the integration of ICT while ensuring social inclusion for all Liberians. The policy, encompassing infrastructure and legal and regulatory framework among others, is expected to strengthen consumer rights, enhance service delivery, and establish Liberia as a leader in telecommunications governance in the region.

Hikmatu Bilali