Burundi’s integration into the East African Community (EAC) is a significant stride for the nation, fostering enhanced connectivity and economic prospects across the region. Effective from August 1st, 2024, a revolutionary regional roaming framework has been implemented, substantially reducing communication costs for Burundian citizens and businesses. burundi roaming eac

This initiative promises to revolutionize cross-border interactions within the EAC bloc, bringing Burundi closer to its East African counterparts – Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and South Sudan.

A Boon for Businesses and Individuals: Reduced Communication Costs

Prior to this integration, exorbitant roaming charges often deterred cross-border communication. The new framework dismantles this barrier, establishing a capped regional retail rate of just $0.10 per minute, inclusive of taxes. This marks a significant reduction from the previous fees. Additionally, receiving calls while roaming within the EAC is entirely free of charge!

Imagine the convenience for Burundian business professionals seamlessly connecting with clients and partners across the region without incurring excessive roaming costs. This fosters a more collaborative and integrated business environment, propelling regional economic growth. Similarly, individuals can now stay connected with loved ones residing in neighboring EAC countries at a much more affordable rate.

Transparency and Clear Communication: A Priority

The Burundian Telecommunications Regulatory and Control Agency (ARCT) is committed to ensuring transparency throughout this transition. Burundian telecom operators are mandated to clearly communicate the applicable rates for both direct regional calls and regional roaming services. Furthermore, the ARCT has emphasized the importance of detailed billing to guarantee clarity and accuracy regarding communication charges.

“ Through this regional initiative, Burundian citizens and businesses will now benefit from advantageous rates when communicating with their counterparts in other EAC member states, namely Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and South Sudan ,” ARCT said.

It also added that these unique and competitive rates will significantly reduce cross-border communication costs in the region.

This level of transparency empowers Burundian citizens and businesses to make informed decisions about their communication needs. They can be confident that they are receiving clear and accurate information regarding the new regional roaming rates.

A Stepping Stone Towards a More Connected East Africa

Burundi’s accession to the EAC’s Single Communication Network, also known as the One Network Area (ONA), represents a monumental step towards a more unified and interconnected East Africa. This initiative transcends mere cost reductions; it paves the way for a more integrated economic community, fostering closer collaboration and knowledge sharing across borders.

Imagine a future where seamless communication across the EAC is commonplace, where businesses can operate effortlessly across borders, and where individuals can connect with loved ones without limitations. The implementation of the regional roaming framework in Burundi signifies a significant chapter in this journey towards a more interconnected East Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When did the new regional roaming framework come into effect in Burundi? The new regional roaming framework came into effect in Burundi on Thursday, August 1st, 2024.

2. What is the capped regional retail rate for calls under the new framework? The capped regional retail rate for calls under the new framework is $0.10 per minute, inclusive of applicable taxes.

3. Is there a charge for receiving calls while roaming within the EAC? No, receiving calls while roaming within the EAC is entirely free of charge under the new framework.

4. How are Burundian telecom operators ensuring transparency regarding the new rates? Burundian telecom operators are mandated to communicate the applicable rates for both direct regional calls and regional roaming services. Additionally, detailed billing is being implemented to ensure clarity and accuracy regarding communication charges.

5. What are the long-term implications of Burundi joining the EAC’s One Network Area? Burundi’s accession to the EAC’s One Network Area paves the way for a more integrated East African economy, fostering closer collaboration, knowledge sharing, and seamless cross-border business operations. burundi roaming eac

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