If only other African governments could follow Rwanda on standards

It is funny how the issue of “network problems” has become an excuse for not returning calls or outright lies. It has become easy to say, “Simu yako ilikuwa mteja” ("Your phone could not be reached"). The network problems mean that calls never go through at first attempt. You have to try two or three times. Calls drop, and every time, we ask each other, “Unanisikia?” ("Can you hear me?"). And, in the process, phone credit is wasted. Amazingly, we have accepted it! The Communications Commission of Kenya envisaged a better situation when it imported equipment from Israel to monitor the call drop rates, call completion rates and other standards stipulated in the agreement. But none of that is enforced. No one knows what the equipment is used for. At least CCK does not comment when the network is congested. Rwanda has just shown Kenya how to do it: Just fine the guys for delivering substandard services or delaying time lines. MTN-Rwandacell got flak for delaying implementation for six months. Such standards do not exist in Kenya; otherwise, CCK would be rich with fines from these companies making obscene profits. I think consumers have a right to better service, and those who offer mediocre service should pay the fines.