LTA Hosts Forum to Advance Telecom Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities

The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) has reaffirmed its commitment to an inclusive communications landscape by hosting a stakeholder forum at the Group of 77 Headquarters under the theme “Everyone Has a Right.” The event brought together disability community leaders, consumer advocates, and representatives from the country’s mobile network operators to address challenges faced by persons with disabilities in accessing telecommunications services. Raymond Zarbay, Senior Technical Assistant to the Executive Director of the Group of 77, emphasized the organization’s dedication to building a future “where no one is left behind.” He commended the LTA for its ongoing efforts to engage and listen to the disability community.

LTA Commissioner for Government and Consumer Affairs Patrick Honnah expressed that he was deeply moved by the discussions between the Group of 77, the LTA, and the two mobile network operators, describing the exchanges as a powerful reminder of the need for equality and inclusion. He also announced that official consumer contact channels for all mobile operators will now be publicly accessible, ensuring that the LTA can take timely action when consumer complaints remain unresolved. A panel featuring representatives from the LTA, Lonestar Cell MTN, and Orange Liberia participated in an open discussion with attendees, addressing concerns related to accessibility, customer support, and digital inclusion. Participants called for improved sign-language services, expanded digital literacy programs, and increased attention to the needs of consumers with disabilities. In response, both operators pledged to collaborate closely with the LTA to implement solutions through their institutional frameworks.

LTA Consumer Manager Lekpele Nyamalon assured participants that the Authority will closely monitor progress and hold operators accountable for carrying out recommendations that emerged from the forum. The event reinforced the principle that persons with disabilities are equal participants in society and valued consumers. It marks a meaningful step toward building a more inclusive, responsive, and accessible telecommunications sector in Liberia

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