The Autorité de régulation des communications électroniques et des postes (ARCEP) is hosting a workshop in Ziniaré from September 28 to 30, 2026, to engage with consumers in the Oubri region. The event aims to educate consumer associations, civil society organizations, and citizen watch groups about ARCEP's role in protecting consumers and ensuring quality electronic communication services. The workshop's theme is "Bilan des actions de l'ARCEP et perspectives pour une meilleure satisfaction des consommateurs des services de communication électronique."
The workshop was opened by Saïdou Guyma, High Commissioner of the Bassitenga province, representing the Governor of the Oubri region. Guyma emphasized the growing importance of electronic communications and mobile financial services in Burkina Faso's economy and society. He noted that these services have become essential for the country's development, financial inclusion, and public and private service continuity.
Guyma highlighted the challenges facing consumers, including expectations for better network quality, transparent pricing, and data protection. He stressed that consumers must be at the forefront of ARCEP's and operators' priorities. The High Commissioner also underscored ARCEP's responsibility in regulating the sector, promoting healthy competition, controlling tariffs, and evaluating service quality.
The workshop aims to strengthen collaboration between ARCEP and consumer organizations. Guyma encouraged organizations to act as intermediaries between authorities, service providers, and end-users, providing feedback on consumer experiences and concerns. He emphasized that effective regulation requires the input of consumer associations and citizen watch groups.
Salamata Rouamba, Technical Advisor at ARCEP, stated that consumers must be aware of their rights, operator obligations, and how to report difficulties. She explained that the workshop will cover ARCEP's missions, user rights and obligations, and complaint handling procedures. The ARCEP team will also listen to observations on services offered in the region and challenges faced by consumers.
Rouamba noted that ARCEP has implemented measures to improve mobile phone services, such as revising offer validity and suspending rather than canceling services when expired. She emphasized the need for ongoing discussions with consumers to address emerging issues in the rapidly evolving electronic communications sector.
Irissa Ouédraogo, representing the Ligue des consommateurs, welcomed the workshop, which will enable them to understand ARCEP's actions and share consumer difficulties to find solutions. The workshop provides a platform for stakeholders to engage and work towards better consumer satisfaction in electronic communication services.
Key points
- ARCEP holds a workshop to educate consumer associations and organizations about its role in protecting consumers and ensuring quality electronic communication services.
