Mobile Number Portability (MNP) could become a reality in Botswana once consultations with key stakeholders are concluded, according to the Botswana Telecommunications Authority (BTA).

Thari Pheko, the authority’s chief executive, says that enabling mobile phone users to retain mobile telephone numbers on switching from one mobile network operator to another could enhance competitiveness in the market.

“We are continuously exploring avenues through which competition can be promoted in the telecommunication market, to make services affordable to consumers,” he said.

The ongoing consultation, which is expected to be completed in August, is planned to inform BTA’s decision to implement MNP.

“Subsequent to the final report, we will also issue a statement on our position with respect to whether or not Mobile Number Portability should be implemented in Botswana,” said Pheko.

Mobile operators in the country, though, have reportedly been reluctant to provide information and data to the BTA regarding its study on number portability.

“Operators have not complied with providing information, for example, information on costs of implementing number portability citing that they need detailed specifications first,” Thari said.

Nevertheless, the authority remains optimistic about the project, as making MNP mandatory will see Botswana join the leagues of South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria and Ghana.