Ghana and Burkina Faso have signed two major telecom agreements aimed at removing digital barriers between the two countries. The deals introduce free mobile roaming and a joint spectrum management framework.
The agreements were signed on November 21, 2025, during Burkina Faso’s Digital Week in Ouagadougou. They mark another step in Ghana’s growing push for regional digital integration.
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The Memoranda of Understanding were signed between Ghana’s National Communications Authority and Burkina Faso’s Autorité de Régulation des Communications Électroniques et des Postes.
The agreements focus on two core areas.
Free roaming services
Mobile users from Ghana and Burkina Faso will be able to make calls, send SMS, and use mobile data across borders without extra roaming charges. This removes a major cost barrier for travellers, traders, and border communities.
Joint spectrum management
Both regulators will coordinate radio frequency usage along the shared border. The aim is to reduce signal interference and improve network quality in border regions.
The signing ceremony included senior technical officials from both regulators. Mobile network operators have now been directed to begin implementation. A phased rollout is expected.
What This Means for Citizens and Businesses
The impact of the agreements extends beyond convenience.
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Lower communication costs
Travellers and traders can stay connected without unexpected charges. -
Stronger cross-border trade
Reliable connectivity supports logistics, payments, and informal commerce. -
Improved digital inclusion
Border and rural communities benefit from better signal quality. -
Growth in digital services
Sectors such as e-commerce, remittances, and remote work stand to gain.
Public reaction online has been largely positive. Frequent travellers and cross-border traders describe the move as long overdue.
Official Comments and What Comes Next
Ghana’s Minister for Communications and Digitalisation described the agreements as essential to affordable and seamless mobile services across West Africa. Burkina Faso’s ARCEP also highlighted the role of the pacts in strengthening digital economies.
As implementation advances, regulators are expected to pursue similar arrangements with other neighbouring states. Nigeria has been mentioned as a potential future partner.
