Mass Exodus from Orange and Africell: Subscribers Switch Providers

Mass Exodus from Orange and Africell: Subscribers Switch Providers

Following a recent increase in data tariffs, over 500,000 mobile subscribers in Sierra Leone are reportedly migrating away from Orange and Africell. 

Within a 24-hour period, more than 509,000 subscribers are said to have transitioned to alternative providers, including Qcell, OneMobile, and Starlink. This information was provided by Edmond Abu, a figure from the Native Consortium and a human rights activist.

Mr. Abu advised subscribers unable to immediately switch networks to utilize dual-SIM devices or dedicated handsets to retain their existing numbers for voice calls and financial transactions. He also highlighted that the weekly 1Mbps data plan, which has increased in price from Le 60 to Le 100, continues to deliver speeds below the advertised rate, which is a major driver for the subscriber exodus.

Furthermore, Mr. Abu criticized media outlets that have remained silent on the issue, suggesting their inaction is due to political and commercial alignments with Orange and Africell.

Subscribers are being encouraged to continue switching providers to amplify their dissatisfaction. It is anticipated that the number of subscribers abandoning Orange and Africell will increase further by the second day of the boycott, reflecting persistent discontent with both service quality and pricing.