TCRA throws weight behind secured communication services

TANZANIA Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has underscored the need for care and vigilance when using mobile Phone communication services.

Speaking as part of public awareness at Mwalimu Nyerere grounds where the  47th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fare (DITF) is taking place, the regulator’s head of consumer affairs, Mr Thadayo Ringo, said that TCRA is seizing the famous event to raise awareness to users on various safety issues on communication services in the telecom, internet, broadcasting, and postal sectors.

Speaking to this reporter, Mr Thadayo Ringo, who heads the consumers and customers section at TCRA, emphasized the importance of vigilance among users of mobile communication services.

He urged users not to cooperate with scammers who attempt to deceive them into making unaccounted payments.

“For users of mobile communication services, I strongly advise you to stop cooperating with fraudsters who call your phone numbers demanding payment in exchange for unaccounted for services,” Ringo said.

“Please do not entertain such calls and immediately report any suspicious numbers to 15040,” he advised.

He further alerted users to be wary of fraudulent broadcasted short messages, “Messages like ‘ile hela Tuma kwenye namba hii; usipige spika mbovu!!’ should also be reported to the same number, 15040, which is a free service,” he emphasised.

In addition to safeguarding users, Mr. Ringo addressed communication service providers and aspiring investors in the sector, encouraging them to utilize TCRA’s Tanzanite Portal – an improved license application system.

He explained that the portal, accessible through www.tanzanite.tcra.go.tz, enables service providers to upload applications, renew licenses, and receive feedback on their services without the need for physical visits to TCRA offices. This advancement streamlines administrative processes and facilitates effective communication between TCRA and stakeholders.

Moreover, Mr. Ringo advised individuals who encounter the loss of communication gadgets to report such incidents promptly to the nearest Police station.

By providing essential identification details, such as the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) for mobile phones, the Police can effectively assist in addressing theft cases.

Regarding service challenges, Mr. Ringo underscored the significance of direct communication with service providers.

“If you encounter any challenges with your communication services, your first priority should be to communicate with your service provider. We at TCRA’s Customer and Consumer Desk ensure that consumers are served based on the details of unfinished issues from the service provider’s end. This is where we bridge the gap between the user and the service provider through established mechanisms, including a legally established complaints committee,” he added.

As a culmination of TCRA’s efforts to improve communication services, Mr. Ringo emphasized that the authority has implemented a robust feedback mechanism for managing feedback from communication stakeholders.

This mechanism ensures a collaborative and responsive approach to meeting user needs while keeping abreast of the interests of all stakeholders, which include consumers and service providers. In TCRA’s perspective, these stakeholders are categorised as consumer and customer.

Speaking earlier at the pavilion, the TCRA’s Board Chairman, Engineer Othman Sharif Khatib, expressed TCRA’s determination to effectively implement its strategic plan goals that include providing stakeholders with education to keep them informed about their rights and obligations.

“We firmly believe that raising awareness is crucial for enhancing our regulatory responsibilities towards the services we oversee and deliver to our stakeholders. As a result, the communication landscape will continue to flourish,” remarked the chairman.

The 47th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair offers TCRA a valuable platform to connect with the public and stakeholders.

This year, the Authority has constructed a meticulously designed pavilion to address critical issues concerning communication services in the country.

At the pavilion, TCRA knowledgeably exhibits various regulatory equipment, notably a mobile spectrum analyzer installed on a vehicle. The regulatory body warmly invites communication stakeholders to visit the pavilion and gain deeper insights into its functionalities.