By Ibrahim Bakarr
Subscribers of Africell and Orange Sierra Leone were met with unexpected data price increases this morning, as both telecom providers discontinued the widely used 1Mbps weekly data bundle priced at Le60, replacing it with a 2Mbps plan costing Le100. The abrupt change, implemented without prior public notice, has ignited widespread frustration among consumers.
The 1Mbps weekly plan had been a lifeline for many Sierra Leoneans, particularly students, small business owners, and low-income earners, offering an affordable means to stay connected. Its sudden removal places an additional financial burden on these vulnerable groups.
Compounding the issue is the lack of communication from both Africell and Orange. Neither company has issued a formal statement explaining the rationale behind the price hike, leaving customers feeling disregarded.
The National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA), responsible for regulating the telecom sector, has also remained silent on the matter. Under the leadership of Director General Amara Brewah, NaTCA has faced criticism for its perceived inaction on issues such as poor service delivery and erratic data charges.
Consumer advocacy groups are now calling for immediate action
- NaTCA should investigate the sudden price change and urge Africell and Orange to reinstate the 1Mbps for Le60 weekly bundle pending further consultations.
- Director General Brewah should publicly clarify NaTCA’s position and explain the Authority’s oversight in this case.
In a country where digital access is already limited by cost and infrastructure, the unexplained removal of an affordable data plan is seen as a step backward. Citizens are demanding transparency, accountability, and equitable access to telecommunications services.
The public outcry underscores the need for regulatory bodies and service providers to engage in open dialogue with consumers, ensuring that changes in service offerings do not disproportionately impact those who rely on them the most.
Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Friday, May 23rd, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
