27 October 2025: Telecommunications regulators in Madagascar and Chad are intensifying efforts to address mounting public concerns over the cost and quality of mobile internet and voice services, highlighting growing regulatory scrutiny across Sub-Saharan Africa’s digital markets.
In Madagascar, the Autorité de Régulation des Technologies de Communication (ARTEC) has engaged directly with mobile network operators (MNOs) following a surge in consumer complaints about high mobile internet tariffs. The regulator has urged operators to review and lower their data prices to improve affordability and access.
Although ARTEC lacks the authority to set prices directly, it acts as a mediator and facilitator, encouraging dialogue between industry stakeholders to reach “balanced and lasting solutions” that ensure fair pricing and sustainable competition. This initiative builds on ongoing regulatory measures launched in late 2024, which led to preliminary tariff adjustments currently in force.
Meanwhile, in Chad, the Autorité de Régulation des Communications Électroniques et des Postes (ARCEP) has completed its 15th national audit of mobile network quality. The assessment evaluated call success rates, voice clarity, 4G coverage, and internet speeds across multiple regions.
According to ARCEP, the results show improved signal stability in major cities due to continued operator investments. However, persistent challenges remain, particularly energy constraints, ageing infrastructure, and uneven coverage along transport corridors.
The regulator reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing quality standards and holding operators accountable. In 2023, ARCEP fined Airtel Chad US$8.3 million for failing to meet service quality benchmarks. Yet, consumer complaints persist, particularly around network outages, unstable connectivity, and high service costs, indicating that further reforms are needed to achieve consistent nationwide quality.
These developments reflect a broader continental trend: African regulators are adopting more assertive oversight approaches to ensure fair pricing, service reliability, and universal access — balancing investment incentives with consumer protection in fast-evolving telecom markets.
