The National Communications Authority (NCA) has announced that six Somali mobile operators have completed the interconnection of their networks to allow end users to call each other seamlessly across different telecoms networks. The regulator said the move will promote competition, improve connectivity and drive innovation in the industry, leading to better pricing and service offerings for consumers.
An agreement between the operators, which was signed in December last year, was a result of a series of discussions and consultations between the relevant parties that worked out all the fundamental issues necessary for the signing of the deal, including mobile termination rates (MTRs).
The interconnection agreement came into force on 10 January 2023 and operators began implementing the interconnection process the following month. The NCA stated at that time that the agreement had been implemented in part by Hormuud Telecom, Somtel, Amtel, SomLink, Golis Telecommunications and Telesom.
Previous attempts in 2000 and 2014 at implementing interconnection agreements between operators failed, mainly due to a lack of regulatory framework at the time.
‘The successful interconnection among the six operators is a significant achievement for the telecom industry in Somalia. Therefore, this will promote competition, reduce prices, and provide more options for customers,’ commented Mustafa Yasin, General Manager of the NCA, adding: ‘We applaud the operators’ efforts in completing this important milestone and encourage them to continue collaborating to benefit the industry and consumers.’
Source: Comms Update
