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Diffusion of mobile telephony: Analysis of determinants in Cameroon

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  • Honoré, Bidiasse

Abstract

This paper explores the diffusion of mobile telephone technology in Cameroon by identifying and analyzing the determinants of this diffusion. Studying the diffusion of mobile communications in African countries by integrating them into panels of developing countries is problematic. This approach is likely to mask the intrinsic differences as concerns the diffusion process. This survey shows, through the estimation of an S-shaped growth curve, that the Logistic model best describes the diffusion of mobile phone technology in Cameroon. Income, openness to competition and the use of SMS are key forces driving this diffusion. Forecasts indicate an increase of almost 70% in the demand by 2026 as far as mobile phone use in Cameroon is concerned. This implies not only an improvement in operators' and State's revenues, but also, the need to invest in infrastructures. Our recommendation therefore calls for a greater liberalization of the mobile phone market in Cameroon. In addition, given the complementary relationship between the core and the mobile networks, infrastructural investments are also needed in both sectors.

Suggested Citation

  • Honoré, Bidiasse, 2019. "Diffusion of mobile telephony: Analysis of determinants in Cameroon," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 43(3), pages 287-298.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:telpol:v:43:y:2019:i:3:p:287-298
    DOI: 10.1016/j.telpol.2018.08.002
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Mobile telephone technology; Technological diffusion; Access subsidies; Competition; Regulation;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C13 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General - - - Estimation: General
    • C25 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Discrete Regression and Qualitative Choice Models; Discrete Regressors; Proportions; Probabilities
    • L1 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance
    • L96 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Transportation and Utilities - - - Telecommunications
    • O3 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights

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