Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso abolish roaming charges in groundbreaking agreement

The deal, signed in Niamey, aims to promote greater economic and social ties among the three nations, which collectively form the recently established Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
This decision means citizens of these countries can now make cross-border calls and send messages without additional costs, a move hailed as transformative for regional integration.
Breaking Barriers to Mobility
Wenlassida Patrice Compaoré, Executive Secretary of Burkina Faso’s telecommunications authority (ARCEP), described the agreement as a “breakthrough” in removing economic obstacles.
“This initiative addresses the needs of our populations who have suffered under the high costs of cross-border communication,” Compaoré said.
He emphasized the effort to bridge divides, adding, “It is a step toward a connected world where geographical boundaries no longer limit technological advancements.”
The agreement, a core part of AES’s objectives, is expected to enhance communication, strengthen cooperation, and foster unity among the Sahel nations.
Unity Amid Challenges
The abolition of roaming fees is seen as a bold statement of solidarity within a politically and economically challenged region.
The AES, formed in 2024 by the military-led governments of the three nations, seeks to counterbalance the influence of external powers, including those of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and former colonial powers like France.
The measure also carries significant economic benefits, especially for cross-border traders and migrant workers.
For these groups, high communication costs have often hindered their ability to maintain family ties or conduct business effectively.
Toward Greater Integration
In addition to telecommunications, the AES is also advancing other integration efforts.
Ministers from the three nations recently convened in Bamako to harmonize travel and identity documents, aiming to simplify administrative procedures and encourage economic cooperation.
General Mohamed Toumba, Niger’s Minister of Security, highlighted that “biometric identity cards and Burkinabé passports will serve as models for the entire AES region, pending final approval by our leaders.”
This initiative complements the ongoing fight against regional insecurity, as leaders seek to combine forces to address terrorism and cross-border crime.
A Model for Regional Connectivity
The AES’s efforts could inspire similar integration across West Africa, where high communication costs remain a challenge.
By fostering connectivity, the alliance hopes to boost not only economic collaboration but also the region’s digital transformation.
Observers see the removal of roaming fees as a cornerstone for reducing the digital divide and enhancing access to education, healthcare, and e-commerce across the Sahel.
While the pact will require harmonized infrastructure and regulatory adjustments, it represents a crucial step toward a more interconnected future for Africa.