A groundbreaking agreement has been reached by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, marking a significant step towards seamless digital connectivity across their borders. These Sahel states have signed a cross-border radio frequency deal, aiming to reduce signal interference and enhance digital cooperation. But here’s where it gets controversial: will this agreement truly make a difference, or is it just a step towards a more complex digital landscape?
Uniting the Digital Frontiers
On November 21, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) member countries agreed to coordinate radio frequencies along their shared borders. This agreement establishes a 15-kilometer zone on each side of the borders, free from interference and signal jamming. It’s a bold move towards strengthening digital ties between these nations.
The radio spectrum, as defined by the Malian Ministry of Communication, Digital Economy and Administrative Modernization, is a critical resource for various sectors, including mobile communications, broadcasting, and security services. Managing this spectrum effectively requires strict coordination to ensure high-quality services and support the ongoing digital transformation.
Harmonizing Frequencies, Strengthening Cooperation
The agreement focuses on harmonizing frequency parameters and coordination procedures. It also emphasizes the importance of information sharing among national regulators and regular meetings to address cross-border interference issues. Furthermore, it aims to update the regulatory framework to accommodate new technologies and the evolving digital market.
This signing ceremony took place during Burkina Faso’s Digital Week, attended by official delegations from Niger and Mali. It follows a series of initiatives, including the adoption of a joint roadmap to reinforce digital sovereignty and the creation of the AES Data Protection Authorities Consultation Framework (CC-APDP-AES) in April 2025.
These efforts build upon the three governments’ commitment to a common position against rising cyber threats, which include sophisticated cyberattacks, disinformation, electronic fraud, and system infiltration.
A Digital Future, but at What Cost?
During Digital Week in November 2024, the three countries signed an agreement to eliminate roaming fees, and they’ve since announced plans for a shared roadmap covering digital and telecom projects, set to begin in 2025. This roadmap focuses on various aspects, from regulation and cybersecurity to network interconnection and infrastructure improvement. The countries also plan to acquire satellites to enhance telecom services.
These initiatives are part of a larger continental movement, where digital technology is seen as a key driver of socioeconomic development. A joint study by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Google estimates that Africa’s digital economy could reach a staggering $712 billion by 2050, equivalent to 8.5% of the continent’s GDP.
However, the signing of these agreements raises questions about their practical implementation. For instance, free roaming within the AES was expected to start on January 1, 2025, but there’s been no official confirmation of its implementation.
This leads us to ask: Will these agreements truly bring about the desired digital transformation, or are they just a series of well-intentioned steps that may face challenges in a complex digital landscape?
What are your thoughts on this digital cooperation initiative? Do you think it will succeed, or are there potential pitfalls that could hinder its progress? Share your insights in the comments below!