The COMESA Competition Commission is investigating Airtel Mobile Commerce BV and MTN Group for potential violations of consumer protection laws within the COMESA region.
The commission cites alleged discrepancies between displayed and actual charges for mobile money transfers.
In addition, telcos fail to disclose crucial information to consumers, such as exchange rates, intermediary parties, and sender information.
“In the case of Airtel Mobile Money Kenya, the charges displayed to the sender before confirming the transaction are, in some instances, different from the actual charges indicated in the final confirmation message, and details of the intermediary parties, as well as the exchange rate used, are not disclosed to consumers,” the COMESA Competition Commission said in a notice.
“The alleged conducts are considered misleading and unconscionable as it denies consumers the right to material information required to make informed decisions,” the commission said.
These actions may have denied consumers the right to make informed decisions about their financial transactions.
The investigation aims to ensure fair competition and protect consumer rights within the COMESA region.