By Christian Appleton
MARYLAND COUNTY, LIBERIA – The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) recently visited Maryland County as part of its comprehensive nationwide tour aimed at reinforcing consumer protection regulations among telecommunications service providers. This initiative underscores the LTA’s commitment to ensuring that consumer rights are upheld and service standards are maintained across the country.
During an exclusive interview on August 4, 2024, Mr. Augustus Fallah, co-head of the LTA team, outlined the tour’s primary objectives. He emphasized the importance of soliciting feedback from citizens regarding the services provided by the two main GSM companies operating in Southeastern Liberia: Lonestar and Orange.
Mr. Fallah expressed significant concern over the practice of service interruptions by GSM companies without prior notification to customers. “It is a violation and total disservice to consumers that warrants immediate attention from service providers,” he stated firmly. He highlighted numerous instances where consumers reported purchasing minutes or data packages, only to experience network connectivity issues shortly thereafter.
“This tour is about hearing from citizens about their experiences with the two main GSM companies in Southeastern Liberia (Orange and Lonestar),” Fallah added. By collecting firsthand accounts from consumers, the LTA aims to address and rectify these issues, ensuring a more reliable and transparent telecommunications sector.
The LTA’s initiative comes at a crucial time, as consumer trust in telecommunications services is vital for the sector’s growth and efficiency. The authority’s proactive approach is expected to enhance accountability among service providers and improve overall service quality.
In conclusion, the LTA’s nationwide tour is a significant step towards reinforcing consumer protection in Liberia’s telecommunications industry. By prioritizing consumer feedback and addressing service deficiencies, the LTA is dedicated to fostering a more transparent and accountable telecommunications environment for all Liberians.