Modernising quality of service regulations in Sub-Saharan Africa

Quality of service (QoS) regulation is at the heart of efforts to realise the goal of high service quality levels. In Sub-Saharan Africa, most countries follow a direct regulatory approach, which involves the regulator setting QoS parameters, targets and measurement criteria, and in most cases using sanctions to enforce compliance. However, key findings from a GSMA survey of national regulatory authorities (NRAs) and service providers conducted for this report reveal the limitations of current QoS regulatory regimes in the region. These include complex and
disproportionate targets, a lack of technical standardisation and industry collaboration or consultation, outdated and homogeneous frameworks, and the potential for financial sanctions to be counterproductive.

Against this backdrop, it is essential for policymakers and regulators to adopt QoS policies that are fit for purpose in the modern age. This involves moving from a ‘command and control’ regime to an ex-post model that protects the interest of consumers, promotes fair competition and choice, and encourages investments in network infrastructure and services.

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