You are likely to enjoy a lower calling rate following the implementation of a lower Mobile Termination Rates (MTRs) and Fixed Termination Rates (FTRs) by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).
In the latest review, CA has capped the MTRs and FTRs at 41 cents per minute effective from 1st March 2024, down from the current 58 cents per minute.
MTRs and FTRs are the costs that operators charge each other to allow customers to communicate across networks.
In a statement, CA says reviewed MTRs and FTRs shall apply to only local voice traffic, which means calls originating and terminating within Kenya.
The current SMS termination rate of 5 cents per SMS remains unchanged.
“The new rate is informed by the prevailing economic environment, ICT market dynamics and the need to strike a balance between the promotion of investment and the protection of consumers. Lower MTRs and FTRs mean lower calling rates for consumers.
“This decision will have positive outcomes for both the consumers and operators. Consumers will now enjoy access to a variety of affordable services across networks while operators will have more price flexibility in developing more affordable products,” read in part, the statement from CA.
The ICT industry regulator says the revised MTRs and FTRs will be in place for a period of two years from March next year.
Ahead of implementation of the revised rates, all telcos are required to vary their Interconnection Agreements in line with the Determination and file their Deeds of Variation with theCommunication Authority of Kenya latest 1st February 2024.