The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), in collaboration with regional telecom regulators, is taking a major step toward seamless regional integration with the rollout of a historic roaming agreement designed to reduce cross-border communication costs for travelers. West Africa roaming agreement

Meeting in Monrovia, the LTA and its counterparts from across the region are set to formalize new arrangements that will lower roaming charges for visitors traveling between their countries. The centerpiece of the gathering is the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the LTA and Côte d’Ivoire’s Autorité de Régulation des Télécommunications/TIC de Côte d’Ivoire (ARTCI).

The MOU provides the framework to implement a cost-reducing roaming arrangement aimed at boosting cross-border business, enhancing connectivity, and stimulating regional tourism.

“This agreement is more than just about reducing the cost of making calls when traveling,” an LTA official said. “It is about breaking barriers, fostering regional trade, and making communication across borders more accessible and affordable for everyone.”

The move builds on years of planning and negotiations between the LTA, regional regulators, and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). It follows earlier discussions between the LTA and the National Communications Authority of Ghana on cross-border roaming agreements, signaling Liberia’s growing role in driving regional telecom integration.

Roaming Revolution: Liberia and Sierra Leone Go Live

On Wednesday, August 6, Liberia and Sierra Leone are expected to launch their “Go Live” platform, officially activating the implementation of these long-awaited roaming agreements. This activation will mark a critical milestone in a process that has seen extensive collaboration between governments, regulators, and telecom carriers across the subregion.

Industry experts have hailed the initiative as a transformative step for West Africa’s digital economy. With the removal of exorbitant roaming fees, businesspeople and travelers can now stay connected across borders without facing prohibitive costs, potentially boosting trade and tourism.

The development comes on the heels of regional efforts to establish a “One Network Area” for ECOWAS countries, aligning with broader goals of economic integration and improved digital cooperation.

As the LTA prepares for the formal signing and subsequent implementation, stakeholders say this agreement represents a strong commitment to regional collaboration in the telecom sector.