Systematic Review of Cross-Border Collaboration in Telecom Projects Across Sub-Saharan Africa

• Author(s): Nasiru Hayatu ; Abraham Ayodeji Abayomi ; Abel Chukwuemeke Uzoka
• Paper ID: 1708633
• Page: 240-267
• Published Date: 31-01-2021
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 4 Issue 7 January-2021

Abstract

Cross-border collaboration in telecommunications has emerged as a critical enabler of economic integration, digital inclusion, and regional development across Sub-Saharan Africa. Given the continent’s vast geography, diverse regulatory environments, and infrastructural disparities, successful telecom projects increasingly rely on coordinated efforts among multiple stakeholders across national borders. This systematic review explores existing literature on cross-border collaboration in telecom infrastructure, service delivery, and regulatory harmonization within Sub-Saharan Africa. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, peer-reviewed articles, policy documents, and institutional reports published between 2000 and 2024 were analyzed to identify key trends, barriers, enablers, and outcomes of regional cooperation. The findings reveal that collaboration has predominantly taken the form of public-private partnerships, intergovernmental agreements, and regional initiatives such as the One Africa Network and Smart Africa Alliance. While cross-border fiber optic deployment and mobile roaming agreements have shown promising progress, challenges persist due to inconsistent regulatory frameworks, political instability, limited technical capacity, and financing gaps. Successful projects often feature strong regional governance, donor support, technology standardization, and the presence of influential multilateral institutions like the African Union and regional economic communities (RECs). This review also highlights the role of digital diplomacy, harmonized spectrum policies, and shared infrastructure models in reducing costs and expanding connectivity to underserved areas. However, gaps remain in measuring long-term sustainability, local impact, and private sector engagement effectiveness. The study underscores the need for coordinated regulatory frameworks, capacity building, and innovative financing mechanisms to scale cross-border telecom collaborations. By synthesizing over two decades of evidence, this review provides a foundation for policymakers, development partners, and industry leaders seeking to accelerate regional integration and bridge the digital divide. The paper concludes with strategic recommendations for strengthening collaborative governance, enhancing interoperability, and fostering inclusive growth through cross-border telecom initiatives in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Keywords

Cross-Border Collaboration, Telecom Projects, Sub-Saharan Africa, Regional Integration, Regulatory Harmonization, Infrastructure Sharing, Digital Inclusion, PRISMA, Public-Private Partnerships, Connectivity Expansion.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Nasiru Hayatu , Abraham Ayodeji Abayomi , Abel Chukwuemeke Uzoka "Systematic Review of Cross-Border Collaboration in Telecom Projects Across Sub-Saharan Africa" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 4 Issue 7 2021 Page 240-267

IEEE:
Nasiru Hayatu , Abraham Ayodeji Abayomi , Abel Chukwuemeke Uzoka "Systematic Review of Cross-Border Collaboration in Telecom Projects Across Sub-Saharan Africa" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 4(7)