Advocates Call on West Africa Mobile Regulators to Prioritize Consumer Rights

During the opening of the 21st annual general meeting of the West Africa Telecommunications Regulators Assembly (WATRA) at the Radison Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel in Freetown, Minister of Communication, Technology, and Innovation, Salima Mornorna Bah, emphasized the importance of prioritizing consumer rights, fairness, equity, transparency, and accountability in regulatory frameworks.

Minister Bah urged the body of mobile regulators in West Africa to establish accessible complaint resolution mechanisms to address consumer grievances promptly. She emphasized the need to empower consumers to drive demand, foster innovation, and contribute to sustainable growth in the telecommunications sector. Minister Bah emphasized the significance of listening to consumer voices and prioritizing their well-being in regulatory decision-making processes.

Furthermore, Minister Bah highlighted the AGM as a symbol of collective determination and commitment among regulators in the region to shape a dynamic and inclusive digital future. She called on regulators to embrace a unified vision aimed at fostering innovation, connectivity, and progress across West Africa.Minister Bah's remarks underscore the importance of regulatory efforts to ensure a fair and transparent telecommunications environment that benefits consumers and promotes sustainable development in the region.

Minister Bah emphasized the critical importance for government regulators to stay abreast of the rapid technological advancements, highlighting the imminent deployment of 5G networks and the immense potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT).

With the imminent rollout of 5G networks, regulators need to ensure that the regulatory framework is updated to address the unique challenges and opportunities presented by this next-generation technology. 5G networks promise to revolutionize communication, connectivity, and digital experiences, but they also raise concerns related to security, privacy, and spectrum management. Therefore, regulators must proactively engage with industry stakeholders to develop policies and standards that promote innovation while safeguarding consumer interests and national security.

Furthermore, Minister Bah underscored the transformative potential of AI and IoT technologies in driving economic growth, enhancing efficiency, and improving quality of life. AI and IoT have the power to revolutionize various sectors, including healthcare, transportation, agriculture, and smart cities. However, their widespread adoption also raises ethical, legal, and regulatory considerations that require careful oversight and governance.

By acknowledging the urgency of keeping pace with technological evolution, Minister Bah demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that government regulators are equipped to effectively navigate the complexities of the digital age. By proactively addressing regulatory challenges and harnessing the opportunities presented by emerging technologies, regulators can foster a conducive environment for innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable development.

She underscored the profound impact of these innovations on various aspects of society, including communication, work, business, and daily life. Minister Bah emphasized that these technological advancements hold the promise of revolutionizing industries, fostering economic growth, enhancing efficiency, and improving the overall quality of life for citizens.

Given the young population in the region, Minister Bah stressed that it is imperative not to be left behind in adopting these emerging technologies. She emphasized that these advancements offer an opportunity for the region to not only catch up with but leapfrog more developed countries in terms of technological innovation and economic development.

Minister Bah's remarks highlight the critical role of government regulators in facilitating the adoption and integration of advanced technologies, ensuring that West Africa remains competitive and poised for success in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. By embracing these innovations, the region can harness their transformative potential to drive inclusive growth and prosperity for its citizens.