Barrow Moves to Address Telecoms Tariff Concerns

By JarraNews Staff Writer

Banjul, 26th August 2025 – President Adama Barrow has established a High-Level Committee to review recent telecommunications pricing regulations introduced by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA). The move follows growing public concern after PURA’s tariff announcement last week, which sparked demonstrations by a group calling itself Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA). Authorities declared the protest illegal, leading to the arrest of dozens of youths, several of whom have since been remanded by a Magistrates Court According to State House, the new committee will be composed of representatives from: 1. The Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy 2. The Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs 3. The Ministry of Justice 4. The Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment 5. The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) 6. The Gambia Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (GCCPC) The committee is tasked with conducting a thorough and impartial review of the pricing regime, ensuring its findings are evidence-based and in line with the government’s policy of safeguarding competition and consumer welfare. President Barrow emphasized that the establishment of the committee reflects his government’s commitment to transparent and consultative governance. He assured Gambians that their rights, interests, and welfare in accessing fair and affordable telecom services will be protected. “The Government recognizes the concerns of the public and remains steadfast in its resolve to safeguard consumer rights while preserving the integrity of the competitive market,” the statement noted. Authorities also cautioned against illegal demonstrations, urging citizens to express their concerns through lawful and constructive channels. The public will be updated on the committee’s findings and further steps as consultations progress.