PART IV 4.0 UNIVERSAL ACCESS National Penetration and Global Connectivity 4.1 Market Penetration and Teledensity The policy supports that all telecommunications and ICT operators commit in their license agreements to provide coverage and service across the country in such a way that coverage and competitive services are provided as uniformly as possible across the country. The objective is to promote market penetration in non universal access communities where competition is effective and successful financial activities are a reality. In accordance with the Telecommunications ACT of 2007, the LTA shall establish specific obligations and responsibilities for all licensed telecommunications and ICT operators in Liberia, and ensure that advancement towards universal access and service goals is a common goal of all participants in the market. In the licensing arrangement, the LTA in consultation with operators should identify commercially viable communities and ensure robust competition in each geographical coverage area of the country. The government’s goal is to expand telecommunications and ICT market penetration to at fifty-five percent (55%) of the population by 2013. 4.2 Universal Access Policy The policy is to ensure that service providers are encouraged to participate in the deployment of telecommunications and ICT networks in designated universal access communities. This policy supports the deployment of payphones and communication equipments in public places and community facilities. In the event that service providers are unwilling to participate, the national operator is mandated by the Telecommunications ACT of 2007 to utilize part of the universal access fund to provide the basic telecommunications and ICT services in these communities. The government will promote universal access programs especially in educational facilities; community health centers; local government offices; tele-centers and Internet Cafés; and other public and private community centers. The objective of the policy is to install telecommunications and ICT networks in forty-five percent (45%) of universal access designated communities in Liberia by 2013. 4.3 Universal Service Policy Universal Service is defined as telecommunications facilities and ICT services delivered to individual homes and business establishments in rural communities. Citizens in these communities shall be given the opportunity to purchase basic telephone, Internet and video services at affordable prices. In addition to private homes, these services shall be installed in educational and health facilities; government offices and community centers; and religious establishments and business centers The successful implementation of the universal service programs will promote market penetration and the use of telecommunications and ICT services by individuals and private establishments in the rural areas. 4.4 Universal Access Fund (UAF) The Universal Access Fund (UAF) shall be established to fund the deployment and installation of telecommunications and ICT networks in designated universal access communities. Financial 29