The Gambian government has established a high-level committee to review a contentious price regulation recently introduced by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), following days of public outcry and mounting debate.
A statement issued from the State House on Monday revealed that President Adama Barrow, after consulting with stakeholders, has mandated the new committee to scrutinize the regulations governing telecommunications pricing, particularly those affecting mobile internet data services.
This move comes in the wake of PURA’s decision to set a minimum (floor) price for mobile data, a policy that sparked widespread backlash among citizens and civil society organizations. The price hike led to protests and the arrest of 23 young people, who were subsequently remanded by Principal Magistrate Thomas Touray at Kanifing Magistrates’ Court.
The newly formed committee includes representatives from key government bodies, namely:
- Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy
- Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs
- Ministry of Justice
- Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment
- Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA)
- Gambia Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (GCCPC)
According to the State House communiqué, the committee will “conduct a thorough and impartial review” of the recent pricing changes in the telecommunications sector, basing its findings on concrete evidence. The government emphasized that the initiative reflects its commitment to transparency and consultative governance.
“The government acknowledges and recognizes the public’s concerns and assures all Gambians that their interests, welfare, and rights regarding fair and affordable services will continuously be safeguarded,” the statement read.
Authorities further pledged to keep the public informed as the committee’s consultations progress, reiterating their dedication to the welfare of Gambians and the maintenance of a competitive market.
