By Adama Makasuba
Public Utilities Regulatory Authority yesterday started a 10-day nationwide consumer outreach tour after a year hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic – which comes as the regulatory body launched its 4th Bantaba. This will enabled to better informed and educate consumers about their rights and responsibilities to services.
The team including officials of the regulatory body and the telecommunication companies – Gamtel, Africell, Commium and Qcell will hold consumer meeting in twenty-three villages across the country after a year hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Speaking to reporters shortly before the departure of the team, PURA’s new Director General Yusupha M Jobe highlighted the principal goal of the ‘Bantaba’ to clarifies issues pertaining to service deliver, by publicly giving account of ways in which services, should be provided to subscribers thus improving transparency and avoiding conflicts and mistrust.”
“The objective of the Bantaba, amongst others, is to create awareness on the rights of the consumers and the obligation of the service providers in the resolution of complaints and concerns, hence improving harmony and unity of purpose, as it relates to all stakeholders,” he said.
Mr Jobe added: “It is in this spirit that we formally inform citizens that, this regulatory mandated campaign and sensitisation will be done in the following towns and villages, over a 10-days period beginning today.”
He highlighted the achievements of PURA and thanked the institution’s staff for their commitment and dedications.
Meanwhile, Alieu Momodou Ngum, chairman PURA Board of Directors, said his Institution’s act requires the authority to ensure services are provided throughout the country irrespective of geographic location, adding “and the interests of all users of the regulated services are protected with respect to price, quality, and variety of services, amongst other consideration.”
According to him, it’s in this vein that PURA organises events such as the Consumer Parliament and Bantaba.