Ghana and The Gambia are taking a bold step toward digital integration in West Africa with plans to implement free mobile roaming between the two countries. The initiative, which is set to launch in the first half of 2025, will eliminate additional charges for calls, texts, and data services for citizens traveling between these nations.
The National Communications Authority (NCA) of Ghana, along with its Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation, is currently in negotiations with Gambian stakeholders to finalize a Memorandum of Understanding. This agreement will pave the way for mobile network operators to begin technical implementations.
This development builds on Ghana’s existing free roaming arrangements with several West African nations. Ghanaians already enjoy local rates for mobile services when traveling to Côte d’Ivoire, Benin, and Togo, thanks to similar agreements implemented throughout 2024.
“This initiative aims to reduce telecommunications costs while fostering seamless communication and strengthening economic and social ties,” stated the NCA in their announcement.
The agreement is part of the broader ECOWAS Free Roaming Initiative, which aims to remove communication barriers across its 15 member states. Under these arrangements, travelers can make calls and access the internet at local rates, while receiving both local and international calls free of charge.
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For young professionals and businesses operating across borders, this means staying connected without worrying about excessive charges. The initiative is expected to boost regional trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two countries.
This partnership represents another milestone in West Africa’s journey toward digital integration, making cross-border communication more accessible and affordable for its citizens.
In June, 2023, Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire launched the free mobile roaming plan, becoming the first African countries to implement the initiative.
