As Sub-Saharan Africa races to close its mobile coverage gaps, national roaming has emerged as a tempting technical and policy solution. But is it the right one?
In our whitepaper, we explore the promise and pitfalls of national roaming across the region. While it can be a powerful tool in specific contexts, such as supporting new market entrants or maintaining service delivery during emergencies, its broader application may do more harm than good.
Why it matters
Mobile connectivity is a cornerstone of economic growth and social inclusion. Yet 15% of people in Sub-Saharan Africa remain unconnected, and a further 59% are covered but not using mobile internet. Governments are under pressure to act quickly.
National roaming, which allows one mobile network operator (MNO) to use another’s infrastructure, offers a fast route to expanded coverage. However, as explored in the report, it is not a fix-all solution.
- Short-term gains, long-term risks: While national roaming can help in deep rural areas or during disasters, mandatory national roaming risks undermining investment, reducing competition, and degrading network quality. One study found that infrastructure investments dropped by 10-20% in the decade following the introduction of mandatory national roaming agreements.
- Market distortion: When regulators impose pricing or terms, it can discourage infrastructure sharing and reduce incentives for innovation. Research by the International Telecommunication Union suggests that mandated sharing agreements can reduce market entry by 30%.
- Better alternatives exist: Neutral host networks, improved use of Universal Service Funds, and hybrid connectivity models (e.g., satellite direct to device and HAPS) offer more sustainable paths to connectivity.
A smarter approach
The report calls for national roaming to be used sparingly and strategically—only where it makes economic and technical sense. Instead of quick fixes, regulators should focus on long-term investment, smarter spectrum management, and enabling infrastructure sharing.
To explore the full analysis, including case studies from across Africa and beyond, download the report below.
