After several notifications to regularize their mobile money operations, NaTCA (National Communications Authority) on Wednesday, 2nd October, 2024 imposed a fine of Le500M each (Old Leones) on the two biggest Mobile Network Operators Africell and Orange. The fines were imposed for the deliberate contravention of the National Communications Authority Act 2022.
Both companies are deemed to be operating their mobile money services without license from the country’s regulatory agency NaTCA.
According to a letter addressed to both operators “Failure to comply with the National Communications Act 2022 would leave the Authority with no alternative, but to conclude that your institutions are illegal entities and they would be treated as such”.
When contacted last night, the Director General of NaTCA, Amara Brewah, confirmed the imposition of the fines but refused to elaborate.
Meanwhile, NaTCA have confirmed that Q-Money operated by Qcell have commenced the process of regularizing their mobile money status.
Qcell have been described by senior NaTCA officials as “a law-abiding company”.
