Monrovia, August 6, 2025 – Liberia has officially entered into a landmark Free Roaming agreement with neighboring Ivory Coast, a move expected to eliminate additional charges on cross-border mobile communication and significantly improve connectivity for citizens of both countries.
The agreement, signed earlier this week, is part of a broader regional initiative aimed at fostering economic integration and strengthening ties among West African states. It ensures that Liberians and Ivorians traveling between the two countries will now be able to make calls, send messages, and use mobile data without incurring exorbitant roaming fees.
Officials say the arrangement is designed to reduce communication barriers, boost trade, and enhance social and cultural interactions between citizens of the two countries, particularly those living in border regions.
“The signing of this agreement marks a major step in strengthening people-to-people connections and promoting regional economic cooperation,” said a senior Liberian telecommunications official. “We believe this will not only benefit ordinary citizens but also facilitate business, education, and cross-border partnerships.”
Mobile operators in both countries have already begun working with regulators to implement the new framework, which is expected to take effect in the coming weeks. The agreement covers voice calls, text messaging, and data services, with tariffs harmonized to ensure affordability.
The move aligns with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) plan to establish a “roam-like-at-home” regime across member countries, allowing seamless mobile communication within the subregion. Several West African nations, including Ghana, Benin, and Togo, have already adopted similar agreements.
For businesses and travelers, the deal is expected to lower operational costs and encourage greater cross-border mobility. Civil society groups have also welcomed the initiative, saying it will promote stronger social integration and give citizens greater access to digital services.
However, analysts note that the success of the agreement will depend on how quickly and effectively mobile network providers adjust their systems and pricing models. They also caution that continuous regulatory oversight will be needed to prevent hidden charges and ensure service quality.
With the agreement now in place, Liberia and Ivory Coast join the growing list of ECOWAS countries removing roaming barriers as the region moves closer to achieving its vision of a borderless West Africa.
