Lusaka, June 28, 2018
The Zambia Information and Communication Technology Authority (ZICTA) on June 26fined all the three mobile phone operators, namely Airtel, MTN and Zamtel, a total of K12,6 million for failing to meet some of the set parameters on quality services as Quality of Service Guidelines for the first quarter of 2018.
This decision was on the back ofa similar action taken by the regulator in the fourth quarter of 2017to fine mobile network operators K3.1 million for failing to adhere to Quality of Service parameters.
CUTS commends the regulatory institution for taking steps to protect the interests of consumers in this sector given that the Authority is empowered to promote the interests of consumers.The performance of the three mobile service providers had been an area of concern for consumers for a long time therefore the steps to hold the servie providers accountable is indeed welcome.
We urge the regulatory authority to continue to follow up the progress of the performance of the mobile network operators to ensure that they improve the quality of their service provision. For as long as the mobile network operators continue to not meet the guidelines, consumers will continue to not receive the full value for the money they spend on the service.
Mobile services are no longer a luxury to the Zambian consumer. They constitute a core component of the day to day social and economic activities of citizens. In light of the growing importance of mobile phones services, not only in Zambia, but across the continent, it is important that the interests of consumers be safeguarded to the highest extent. The growing indispensability of mobile phone services speaks to the importance that the government should place on ensuring not only the accessibility of mobile phone services through the provision of efficient services; but also, the affordability of mobile phone services.
For further information please contact:
Chenai Mukumba, Centre Coordinator, Consumer Unity and Trust Society (CUTS), at cm@cuts.org or 097 8055 293.