Interconnection Among Telecom Operators Goes Successful, Enhancing Connectivity and Competition

Mogadishu, Somalia – Six licensed telecom operators in Somalia have completed their interconnection, marking a significant milestone for the telecom industry. The interconnection will enable seamless connectivity between the operators and provide millions of customers with more options and competitive pricing.

The launching ceremony for the interconnection was held on Saturday, attended by the Prime Minister, cabinet ministers, the general manager of the regulatory authority, licensed operators, and other guests. The event highlighted the importance of interconnection in promoting competition, improving connectivity, and driving innovation in the industry.

Currently, the interconnection will allow for the exchange of voice traffic between the six operators, enhancing the quality of service for customers and expanding the network coverage. It will also promote healthy competition among the operators, leading to better pricing and service offerings for consumers.

Speaking at the launching ceremony, Mustafa Yasin, the general manager of the National Communications Authority (NCA), said: “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. We applaud the operators’ efforts in completing this important milestone and encourage them to continue collaborating to benefit the industry and consumers.”

Mr. Yasin highlighted that previous interconnection agreements have failed – in 2000 and 2014 – mainly because of a lack of regulatory framework. “We hope this time round it will be successful because we have the tools, such as a communications law that mandates interconnection, regulations, guidelines, and regulatory authority that has the oversight mandate,” “I thank the World Bank and IFC for the technical support throughout this journey,” he added.  

The minister of communications and technology, H.E. Jama Khalif, commended the operators on their achievement and emphasized the importance of the telecom sector in driving economic growth and development. “The successful interconnection among the six operators is a crucial step towards promoting connectivity and innovation in the telecom industry. We encourage the operators to continue working together to provide the best possible services for our citizens and contribute to the growth of the country’s economy,” he said.

The prime minister, H. E. Hamza Barre, congratulated the operators on their achievement and reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting innovation and competition in the telecom industry. “The successful interconnection among the six operators is a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance connectivity and promote competition in the telecom sector. We commend the operators for their hard work and dedication and encourage them to continue collaborating for the benefit of our citizens,” he said.

The successful interconnection among the six telecom operators is a significant achievement for the industry and will benefit millions of consumers in Somalia. In addition, it is a testament to NCA’s commitment to regulating Somalia’s communications and technology sector to promote innovation and competition.

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