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The Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) has announced significant reductions in mobile roaming charges following a collaborative initiative involving six Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states aimed at improving connectivity and affordability across the region.
The initiative, known as the One Network Area (ONA), brings together Zambia, Botswana, Malawi, Lesotho, Mozambique and Zimbabwe in a drive to harmonise and substantially reduce roaming tariffs for mobile phone users travelling within participating countries.
In a statement issued on Thursday, ZICTA Manager for Corporate Communications, Hanford Chaaba, said the programme sought to establish cost-reflective roaming tariffs while promoting consumer welfare, particularly through lower data charges.
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Chaaba said data services had become increasingly important in supporting economic growth, digital innovation and regional integration, making affordable access a key priority under the initiative.
“Mobile Network Operators have implemented significant reductions in roaming tariffs for Data, Voice and SMS services, ranging from three percent to as high as 93 percent.
These reductions underscore Zambia’s commitment to improving affordability and accessibility of ICT services for all consumers,” Chaaba said.
He explained that the initiative had also facilitated the signing of new bilateral roaming agreements among Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), including partnerships that previously did not exist.
According to Chaaba, the new agreements are expected to improve service availability and provide a more seamless communication experience for consumers travelling across participating SADC countries.
The development marks a significant step towards regional digital integration and supports efforts to create a more connected and competitive digital economy in Southern Africa.
Chaaba noted that the milestone was in line with a decision reached by Heads of State and Ministers responsible for Information and Communication Technology from Zambia, Botswana, Malawi and Zimbabwe during the Transform Africa Summit held in June 2023.
The leaders committed to implementing a single digital market to promote regional connectivity, innovation and economic development through enhanced digital cooperation.
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