In a bid to address growing concerns over market domination in Kenya’s telecommunications sector, a leading telecommunications company has called upon the Senate Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Committee to step in and regulate the industry. The plea was made during a private sector engagement retreat held in Mombasa on Friday.
The head of regulatory affairs for the telecommunications giant highlighted the urgent need for Senate intervention, emphasizing the critical role of regulatory frameworks in maintaining a level playing field for all mobile network operators. “We urge the Senate ICT Committee to introduce measures that can protect smaller operators from being overshadowed by market dominance,” the regulatory chief stated. The request underscores the increasingly competitive landscape of the Kenyan telecommunications market, where two major telcos are fiercely competing for dominance.
The Kenyan telecommunications sector has witnessed significant changes over the past few years, with intensified competition and the emergence of new market entrants. These new players have begun challenging the established internet and communication network providers, creating a dynamic yet contentious environment. The regulatory chief’s appeal to the Senate ICT Committee reflects the industry’s broader concerns about ensuring fair competition and preventing monopolistic practices that could stifle innovation and limit consumer choices.
During the retreat, the Senate committee acknowledged the telecommunications company’s concerns, noting the importance of regulatory oversight in fostering a competitive and healthy market. “The head of regulatory for a company seeks the Senate ICT Committee’s intervention to regulate the telecommunications sector and protect mobile network operators from market dominance,” the committee noted in its statement.
This call for intervention comes at a critical time as Kenya’s telecommunications sector is poised for further growth and innovation. Ensuring a balanced market where all operators, regardless of their size, can thrive is crucial for the continued development of the industry and the provision of quality services to consumers.
As the Senate ICT Committee deliberates on potential regulatory measures, stakeholders across the telecommunications sector will be closely monitoring the developments. The outcome of these discussions could shape the future landscape of the industry, influencing how competition is managed and how market dominance is addressed.
In conclusion, the appeal made in Mombasa highlights the urgent need for regulatory action to safeguard the interests of all mobile network operators in Kenya. By ensuring fair competition and preventing market dominance, the Senate ICT Committee can play a pivotal role in fostering a vibrant and equitable telecommunications sector that benefits both providers and consumers alike.
