Monrovia, Liberia: The Chairperson designate of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), Clarence Massaquoi, has issued a strong call for reforms in Liberia’s telecom sector, warning that the current two-player dominance by Orange Liberia and Lonestar Cell MTN is stifling competition and hurting consumers.
Appearing before the Senate Committee on Post and Telecommunications on Monday, July 21, Massaquoi said Liberia’s telecom market is dangerously close to becoming a monopoly and urgently needs the introduction of a third or fourth operator to promote open market competition.
“You have GSM companies that are service providers MTN and Orange Liberia. Mr. Chair, I do not want to scare Liberians, but if care is not taken to possibly introduce a third or fourth player, we will do nothing but follow as they demand.” Massaquoi told the committee.
He warned that without additional market entrants, consumers will continue to face high costs, unreliable service, and limited choices. Massaquoi pointed to examples from smaller countries like The Gambia, where more than two providers operate successfully, arguing that Liberia’s population and market size are sufficient to support more telecom companies.
A Market in Urgent Need of Reform
Massaquoi proposed that introducing new mobile network operators would not only help reduce costs but also compel existing providers to improve service quality and customer care. “As it stands, if Orange and MTN decide behind closed doors to charge 25 cents per minute, and we all complain, it changes nothing. We have no other option. That’s why a third or fourth operator is not a luxury but it is a necessity.” He said.
He also criticized the warehousing of telecommunications spectrum by companies that have acquired licenses but failed to launch operations. Massaquoi vowed to lead efforts to audit all current licenses and reclaim unused frequencies to make way for serious investors.
“If I gave you a license meaning I’ve given you my frequency—and you’re keeping it without operating, that’s warehousing,” he said. “Those licenses must be revoked and reassigned.”
Reviving LTC as a Strategic Player
As part of his reform strategy, Massaquoi proposed revitalizing the Liberia Telecommunications Corporation (LTC), a state-owned entity that has struggled to remain relevant. He suggested LTC could become a viable third operator through capital investment or a public-private partnership (PPP).
“LTC is most often seen as a liability it generates no profit because it lacks capital but if we retrieve dormant licenses and allow a new operator to either buy shares from LTC or operate through a PPP model, then LTC could be transformed into a competitive player.” he noted.
Lawmakers Voice Support
Massaquoi’s vision was welcomed by several lawmakers, including Grand Kru County Senator Numene T.H. Bartekwa, who agreed that the current market structure is failing to deliver value to the Liberian people.
“The two companies have not met the satisfaction of the people. We must begin to look at how to improve access, quality, and affordability in this essential sector.” Senator Bartekwa said.
A Promise of Data-Driven Regulation
Massaquoi committed to pursuing a data-driven approach if confirmed, promising that reforms would be guided by market research and consumer feedback.
“Our decisions will be based on facts and evidence, not assumptions. The goal is to open the market, ensure fair pricing, and deliver better services to the Liberian people,” he said.
If confirmed, Massaquoi said the LTA under his leadership would prioritize competition, transparency, and innovation as pillars of its regulatory agenda.
Written By: Jerry Laynumah Siakor
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