A recent investigation has shed light on the changes in data bundle plans introduced by Sierra Leone’s leading telecommunications companies, Africell and Orange. Contrary to public speculation, the changes are not a reflection of a tariff increase but rather a promotional strategy to enhance customer experience and manage network resources efficiently.
The investigation revealed that the companies were facing critical network congestion due to the overuse of the 1mbps data plan, with over 70% of subscribers connected to this single data access point. This led to severe network slowdowns across the country.
To address this issue, Africell and Orange introduced new promotional bundles that redistribute user traffic more evenly across their systems. The redesigned packages offer customers greater flexibility, including the option to subscribe for five days instead of a full week at a cost of Le 80. The ultimate goal is to enhance network efficiency and overall user satisfaction without increasing the cost of access.
Industry observers have compared the situation to a market vendor selling groundnuts using different cup sizes, where customers are given a wider range of purchasing choices. The introduction of the 2 Mbps option provides higher data speed and reliability, especially for users with multiple devices connected simultaneously.
While Africell and Orange have taken the lead in recalibrating their data promotions, Qcell still maintains its existing package structure, which has remained popular among a section of subscribers. This diversity in package options ensures that consumers retain freedom of choice within a competitive telecommunications market.
Experts believe that the new approach will likely yield positive results, including improved service delivery, network stability, and reduced customer complaints about poor connectivity and slow internet speeds.
The changes introduced by Africell and Orange signal a commitment to balancing business efficiency with customer satisfaction in a market where connectivity is now a vital lifeline. As the telecommunications sector in Sierra Leone continues to evolve, it is essential for consumers to understand the difference between a tariff adjustment and a promotional campaign.
