Published: January 29, 2025
CAPITOL HILL – Mobile network operators and the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) have acknowledged persistent challenges with network coverage across the country, particularly in the southeastern region. They have committed to improving connectivity nationwide following communications from Maryland County lawmakers Anthony Williams and Austin Taylor, who raised concerns about poor internet coverage in the southeast. These concerns prompted telecom executives to appear before the House of Representatives.
Jean Marius Yao, CEO of Orange Liberia, apologized for the persistent network issues in several regions, particularly Maryland County, while acknowledging similar challenges in other parts of the country. “We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused by the network issues, and we are committed to improving the quality of our services across Liberia,” Yao said. He assured the public that Orange’s technical teams are actively addressing the situation and highlighted ongoing efforts, including infrastructure repairs, while noting that some areas remain a work in progress.
Yao emphasized that since Orange took over the Circle network, it has invested over $245 million in infrastructure to expand and maintain its network. Despite these efforts, he admitted the challenges of providing comprehensive coverage nationwide. “While we have made significant improvements, there is still much work to be done to reach every corner of Liberia,” Yao explained.
Orange has been expanding its coverage into rural and underserved regions, including the addition of 128 new sites nationwide to provide 2G and 4G services. In Maryland County, Orange operates 11 sites and plans to add five more this year to enhance network reliability. However, Yao noted that difficult road access poses challenges for faster expansion into remote areas. “The geographical landscape of certain regions complicates the expansion process, but we are doing everything we can to ensure better service,” he said.
Rahul De, CEO of Lonestar Cell MTN, also outlined the company’s efforts to improve service quality nationwide, including in Maryland County and other underserved areas. He confirmed that Lonestar is aware of the coverage challenges and has been upgrading its infrastructure to enhance network availability. “Currently, our network availability is at 95%, but we are striving to achieve 99% quality across Liberia,” De stated.
Lonestar Cell MTN is upgrading microwave connections and expanding its infrastructure, with plans to complete these upgrades by mid-year. De also acknowledged that weather-related disruptions and issues with cash availability for mobile money services have affected service in some areas. “We are addressing these challenges, and we appreciate the patience of our customers as we work to improve connectivity,” he added.
Clarence Massaquoi, Acting Commissioner of the Department of Engineering & Technology at the LTA, expressed concern over coverage gaps in both urban and rural areas. He confirmed that the LTA is closely monitoring telecom operators’ plans to expand service and emphasized the authority’s focus on improving service quality and regulating network reliability. Massaquoi noted that consumer protection laws are now in place to ensure companies meet service expectations. “We are working with all telecom operators to ensure that there is no compromise on service quality,” he said.
In response to recent complaints about dropped calls and mobile money transaction issues, Massaquoi reiterated the LTA’s commitment to solving these problems, adding that the authority is implementing various initiatives to address coverage inconsistencies.
Following the operators’ apologies regarding widespread network challenges, the House of Representatives announced the formation of an Ad Hoc Committee to collaborate with telecom operators and the LTA to find lasting solutions. The committee will be chaired by Rep. Ivar Jones, Lawmaker for Margibi County District 2, with Rep. Rugie Barry of Montserrado County District 1 serving as Co-Chair.
The committee’s mandate is to work with telecom operators and the LTA to identify the root causes of connectivity issues and propose actionable solutions to improve telecommunications services across Liberia.
Both Orange Liberia and Lonestar Cell MTN expressed confidence that their ongoing investments and infrastructure upgrades will lead to significant improvements in network service across Liberia, ensuring reliable telecommunications coverage in both rural and urban areas.
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