To enhance consumer rights and protections within the telecommunications sector, the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) on Thursday held a one-day roundtable technical meeting with stakeholders and service providers, including Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs), to review the Draft Consumer Protection Regulations.
Held on August 1, at the LTA Board Room in Paynesville, the meeting marks a significant step toward ensuring fair play and transparency in the industry — a first for both the country and the Authority.
It was also intended to afford stakeholders, MNOs, and ISPs the opportunity to provide feedback and discuss the draft consumer protection regulations that are expected to be launched soon.
In his welcome remarks, Acting Chairperson of the LTA, Patrick Honnah, greeted participants warmly. “On behalf of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority and our colleagues, I would like to thank you for taking the time to be a part of this historic occasion,” Honnah said. “For the first time in our country’s history and the history of the LTA, we are introducing a comprehensive set of Consumer Protection Regulations aimed at guiding and protecting consumers and their rights.”
Honnah highlighted the importance of this initiative, urging active participation from all stakeholders. “We are rolling out stakeholder consultations, particularly targeting the rural parts of our country, to engage stakeholders comprehensively in this process. After these consultations, we will formally launch and release the regulations,” he explained. “This is a crucial moment for our consumers, and we are excited about the protections these regulations will provide.”
He expressed gratitude to the technical team, consumer affairs department, ISPs, and MNOs for their substantial contributions and active participation. “I urge the public to freely engage with our team because once the regulations are out, it will be vital to ensure adherence to them,” Honnah added. “The collaborative efforts from all parties involved will be key to making these regulations effective and beneficial for everyone.”
Following Honnah’s remarks, LTA Commissioner for Licenses and Regulations Department, Ben A. Fofana, emphasized the importance of the initiative. “This is going to be a win-win situation, protecting both our consumers and the industry. Since 2007, we have been talking about consumer protection, and now it is finally happening,” Fofana stated. “The consuming public has suffered for too long. It is time they receive the full benefits of the services they pay for. As regulators, we will ensure fair play on both sides.”
Commissioner Fofana stressed the urgency of implementing robust consumer protections. “The telecommunications landscape has evolved significantly, and it is imperative that our regulatory framework evolves with it. These regulations are designed to address the current realities and challenges faced by consumers, ensuring they are not only protected but also empowered.”
LTA Consumer Affairs Manager, Lekpele M. Nyamalon, elaborated on the significance of the new regulations, noting their comprehensive and responsive design. “These regulations are crafted to meet both consumer and industry needs effectively. They include measures to prevent misleading advertising, ensure fair pricing, and establish clear standards for service quality,” Nyamalon noted. “A key component of the regulations is the establishment of a consumer support center, which will serve as a vital resource for consumers to resolve issues with their service providers and handle unresolved complaints.”
Nyamalon emphasized the proactive role of the LTA in leading the review process and engaging with all stakeholders to gather diverse inputs and perspectives. “The consumer support center will be instrumental in bridging the gap between service providers and consumers, fostering a more transparent and accountable telecommunications environment.”
As the LTA moves forward with finalizing the Draft Consumer Protection Regulations, the Authority is committed to maintaining transparency and inclusivity throughout the process. The final regulations, once launched, will be a testament to the collective efforts and shared vision of all stakeholders involved.
