EAC Advances Regional Mobile Roaming Framework to Support Cross-Border Connectivity

The East African Community  has launched a series of regional consultations aimed at developing a harmonised mobile roaming framework designed to improve affordable cross-border communication and strengthen digital integration across East Africa.

The engagements are being held in Dar es Salaam from May 25 to 29, 2026, bringing together telecommunications experts, policymakers, heads of communications regulatory authorities, and representatives from regional partner institutions under the framework of the EAC Technical Committee on Telecommunications.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts by the regional bloc to accelerate implementation of the EAC Single Digital Market agenda, which seeks to improve digital connectivity, promote regional trade, and support seamless communication across member states.

Officials involved in the discussions are expected to focus on developing a coordinated regional roaming framework that can reduce communication costs for individuals and businesses travelling across borders within the East African region. The framework is also intended to support greater digital inclusion, economic integration, and easier movement of services and information across member countries.

The move reflects growing recognition within the region that affordable and interoperable digital infrastructure is critical for trade, innovation, financial inclusion, and regional economic growth.

By working toward harmonised roaming regulations and policies, the EAC aims to create a more connected regional digital ecosystem capable of supporting businesses, entrepreneurs, and citizens participating in the increasingly digital East African economy.

The consultations are expected to contribute to long-term regional efforts to improve telecommunications cooperation, strengthen regulatory alignment, and build a unified digital market that supports the bloc’s wider economic integration objectives.