Despite concerted efforts, the Prime Minister pointed out that significant shortcomings remain, particularly regarding frequent outages, slow connections, and limited network coverage across the country. He emphasized that citizens primarily assess the effectiveness of their telecom services based on their daily experiences and stressed the need for more rigorous quality control, especially given the still-inadequate deployment of fiber optics in the northern and southern regions of Chad. The Prime Minister also urged authorities to enforce stricter standards to ensure better service delivery.
This latest call for action comes amid persistent criticism from consumers and ongoing pressure from regulators, who have regularly scrutinized the telecom sector. In October, the French Regulatory Authority for Electronic Communications and Posts (ARCEP) completed its 15th service quality audit, launched in September, with the aim of compelling operators to improve their offerings. Consumers have proposed measures such as imposing hefty penalties for non-compliance, setting strict deadlines for improvements, and even revoking licenses in cases of chronic underperformance. Some calls have also been made to open the market to new entrants to foster competition and elevate service standards nationwide.
While ARCEP reported some progress, noting improved signal stability in several urban centers due to increased investment efforts, the regulator also highlighted persistent issues. These include faulty equipment, inadequate maintenance, power supply problems, and complete site outages in certain areas.
Telecom operators in Chad assert that they are investing heavily to upgrade infrastructure. Airtel, for instance, plans to invest 50 billion CFA francs until June 2026, focusing on strengthening microwave links, deploying additional towers to expand coverage, developing fiber optic networks, and replacing core infrastructure. However, challenges extend beyond the operators’ control, notably Chad’s limited international connectivity. The country’s reliance on a single access point via Cameroon hampers its global linkages, although plans are underway to establish connections with neighboring countries such as Niger, Nigeria, Algeria, Libya, and Egypt, in an effort to reduce its landlocked isolation and improve overall connectivity.
