in a meaningful move to enhance the quality of telecommunications services in Cameroon, the government has urged the Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ART) to upgrade its monitoring system. This call came following a visit by the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications,Minette Libom Li Likeng,to assess the progress of operators’ commitments made in April 2023 to address service declines. The minister emphasized the need for automated tools to measure network performance in real time and a centralized digital system for tracking complaints.
In response to the recommendations, the AMC, Cameroon’s telecoms regulator, approved a budget of approximately $125 million for the 2025 fiscal year during its December 4 meeting in bafoussam, the capital of the Western region. ”this budget is earmarked for the construction of control equipment and technical studies, as directed by the Hierarchy,” explained Professor Justine Diffo, president of the ART Board of directors. The budget includes $73.5 million for the Public Finance Department, the Special Telecommunications Fund, and other beneficiaries.
During the 55th regular session, which focused on reviewing the draft budget for 2025, the council paid close attention to the mid-year presentation of the ART’s annual performance report (RAP) on November 15, 2024. Philémon Zo’o Zame highlighted the intensity of activities conducted in 2024. Among the notable achievements, the Council noted the strengthening of investment control by operators, amounting to $300 million, aimed at expanding network coverage and enhancing the quality of electronic dialog services.
In a press release published on December 5, the Council expressed satisfaction with the conclusion of technical controls on operators’ networks and the organization of work visits to strategic centers. It was reported that the implementation of recommendations to improve service quality and bolster consumer rights protection systems was being closely monitored.
At the conclusion of the session, the Board of Directors praised the Director General for the quality and relevance of the documents presented. They also encouraged a regular review of processes to ensure the efficient performance of the management missions assigned to the AMC.
His leadership and efforts in navigating the challenges faced in the telecommunications sector. The Director General was commended for fostering collaboration among operators and regulatory bodies,which has been crucial in driving improvements in service delivery.
In light of these developments, the government remains committed to ensuring that telecommunications services in Cameroon meet international standards. The emphasis on upgrading monitoring systems and enhancing real-time performance tracking is aimed at creating a more responsive and accountable telecommunications framework.
As telecommunications technology continues to evolve, the government’s proactive approach seeks to not only address current service declines but also to anticipate future challenges in the sector. This includes preparing for the integration of emerging technologies and ensuring that consumer rights are upheld as the industry undergoes transformation.
the budget allocation by the ART and the government’s directives signal a robust commitment to improving the telecommunications landscape in Cameroon,ultimately benefiting consumers and stimulating economic growth. The momentum generated by these initiatives is expected to enhance the overall quality of telecommunications services and reinforce the sector’s contribution to national development.