Communications Authority tasked to explain delay in implementing cheaper call rates

On November 19, the Senator explained that the Mobile Termination Rates (MTR) are the key determinant of the cost of voice calls across networks and that reducing them would ensure affordable and accessible communication services for all Kenyans.

Mobile Termination Rates (MTRs) are the charges that one mobile service provider pays another when a call ends on the other network.

These fees directly affect the cost of calling across networks, meaning high MTRs can make calls more expensive for consumers.

According to Cherargei, an independent consultant hired by the CA recommended that Kenya reduce the MTR to Ksh.0.06 per minute. 

The consultant arrived at this figure by comparing Kenya’s rates with international best practices, including countries that have eliminated these charges entirely to make communication cheaper and to boost competition in the telecom sector.

He noted that the CA instead announced a revised MTR of Ksh.0.41 per minute, effective March 1, 2024 down from the previous Ksh.0.58 per minute but still significantly higher than the consultant’s recommendation.

“A consultant engaged by the CA recommended a significant reduction in the MTR to Ksh.0.06 per minute, in line with international best practices, where some jurisdictions have adopted zero-rated termination charges to promote consumer welfare and market competitiveness,” he stated.

The senator stated that such decision raised concerns about the rationale for departing from expert advice and the delay in adopting more consumer-friendly rates.

He further requested the Committee to outline the timeline within which the Authority intends to align the MTR with the consultant's recommendation, given that the current rate expires in March 2026 and to detail the measures in place to ensure timely, transparent and accountable implementation of the lower MTR.