WATRA, the West Africa Telecommunications Regulators Assembly, is paving the way for the future of telecommunications in the region with its ambitious roadmap. The organization’s multifaceted strategy addresses governance, digital inclusion, and regional cooperation, aiming to create a cohesive and unified approach to telecommunications regulation in West Africa.
One of the key initiatives in WATRA’s plan is to bridge the digital divide by extending connectivity to rural and remote areas. Despite widespread mobile internet coverage, actual usage remains low, especially among women and marginalized communities. WATRA is committed to promoting digital literacy, affordability, and accessibility to ensure that the digital revolution reaches everyone, empowering communities through accessible and affordable internet services.
The organization’s focus on infrastructure and gender inclusivity highlights its commitment to ensuring that the benefits of the digital economy are accessible to all. By advocating for fair competition and consumer protection, WATRA aims to create a more inclusive and robust digital economy in West Africa.
Under the leadership of Aliyu Aboki, the Executive Secretary of WATRA, the organization has undergone extensive internal institutional development to drive coordination, collaboration, and partnerships among regional telecommunications policy and regulatory authorities. The digital transformation strategy involves the digitization of records and the development of a GIS web-based platform to enhance decision-making and policy development.
A significant achievement for WATRA was the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ECOWAS, aimed at creating a unified roaming regulation framework across West Africa. This initiative not only simplifies regional connectivity but also positions West Africa as a forward-thinking bloc in the global digital economy.
WATRA’s digital transformation agenda reflects a broader trend towards increased automation, data-driven decision-making, and enhanced service delivery. By embracing these changes and fostering a competitive, fair, and innovative telecommunications environment, West Africa is ensuring that it remains at the forefront of the digital economy revolution.
The organization has also strengthened collaborations with international partners such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the African Telecommunications Union (ATU), enhancing its collective impact and regional engagement. These partnerships are crucial for leveraging global best practices and resources to support sustainable development in the region.
In conclusion, WATRA’s mandate to harmonize telecommunications regulations in West Africa is crucial for stimulating investment, widening access to services, advancing the digital economy, helping businesses grow, and reducing poverty. The organization’s collaborative approach to enhancing telecommunications regulations and policy is key to delivering the vast social and economic benefits of the digital economy to individuals and communities across West Africa.
