ART Cameroon Meets MTN and Orange to Review Investments and Service Quality Improvements

Among the topics discussed, the coordination of frequencies with neighbouring countries (Chad, Gabon, Congo) attracted particular attention. The deployment of technologies in unplanned bands in Cameroon complicates the transition to 4G in the 900 MHz band, with risks of jamming and incompatibility, especially in border areas. The regulator calls for enhanced regional consultation and concerted national reflection before any technical decision. Discussions also focused on the issue of the number of active subscribers, which is essential for reporting and the real measurement of market coverage.

The issue of the compatibility of terminals in rural areas was also raised. A majority of users still use basic phones, limited to 2G or 3G. The introduction of 4G would require an accompanying public policy or a gradual adaptation strategy.

On the financial front, the managing directors, Wanda Matandela of MTN Cameroon and Patrick Benon of Orange Cameroon, presented initial commitments estimated at 30 billion CFA francs each, doubled in 2025. These investments have been directed towards the renewal of equipment, the maintenance of existing sites and the development of the access network, particularly in metropolitan areas. Traffic analysis shows a clear transition to 4G, which now accounts for 90% of data traffic.

The ART recommended the establishment of a half-yearly monitoring mechanism, allowing operators to present the evolution of their investments and correct the discrepancies observed. This interactive format would enhance the transparency and effectiveness of the dialogue between regulator and operators.

In addition to the technical work, telecom operators have announced an interactive communication campaign, scheduled for the end of October, beginning of November, starting with the city of Yaoundé. The Director General of the ART strongly recommended that this initiative be bilingual, substantially educational and implemented in conjunction with consumer rights protection associations. The campaign will aim to inform the population about the causes of disruptions, to highlight the improvement efforts made by stakeholders, to visually explain the changes to the network, and to raise public awareness of the use of electronic communications terminals.