By Hadday Touray
The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) has warned that the operation of public Wi-Fi hotspot services without proper authorization is illegal, following the discovery of several unlicensed providers across the country.
In a statement issued out recently, PURA said monitoring, consultation, and verification exercises revealed that unauthorized hotspot operators were currently providing internet services in parts of the Greater Banjul Area, West Coast Region, Lower River Region, North Bank Region, and Upper River Region.
The Authority acknowledged the importance of broadband expansion and last-mile internet access in promoting digital inclusion and connectivity, but stressed that such services must operate within the country’s legal and regulatory framework.
PURA states that while wireless technologies play a critical role in improving affordable internet access, all hotspot operators are required to comply with licensing and operational requirements designed to protect consumers, licensed operators, government interests and the broader information and communications technology sector.
The authority announced that a registration exercise for hotspot operators would run from 1st January to 3rd March 2026. During the period, individuals and entities involved in internet resale or community Wi-Fi hotspot services would be required to register either directly with PURA or through the recognized Gam-Hotspot Association Operators.
According to PURA, the initiative is intended to regularize existing operators and integrate them into the formal regulatory framework instead of allowing continued non-compliance within the sector.
The authority further stated that the exercise would pave the way for the legalization of currently unauthorized backhaul services, infrastructure, and telecommunications networks used in hotspot operations.
PURA warned that operators failing to comply within the stipulated timeframe risked enforcement measures, including the forced closure of non-compliant operations, in line with provisions of the PURA Act 2001 and the Information and Communications Act 2009.
The authority reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring efficient, reliable, and high-quality service delivery across all regulated sectors while promoting fair competition and consumer protection.
Members of the public were also encouraged to report regulatory concerns through PURA’s toll-free 148 line during official working hours.