Page 150 - SAMENA Trends - February-March 2021

REGULATORY & POLICY UPDATES SAMENA TRENDS

The Zambia Information and Communications after a competitive process, ZICTA awarded Airtel
Technology Authority (ZICTA) has announced that Networks Zambia Limited radio spectrum in the 800
it is inviting applications from eligible licensees for MHz frequency band which, like the latest offering,
issuance of spectrum in the 800MHZ band. However, was priced at $12.5 million. Part of this spectrum,
the Authority has determined that spectrum in the 800 according to the Zambian media, will be used to
Zambia MHZ band is in very high demand. It therefore plans to enhance the spectrum management functions of the
be offered a restricted granting procedure. According Authority, thereby paving way for the quick introduction
to TeleGeography's CommsUpdate, ZICTA is offering a of 5G services in Zambia as well as enhanced QoE and
2×10MHz block (801MHz-811MHz/842MHz-852MHz), services like VoLTE. In both cases, it’s hoped that the
with a reserve price of $12.5 million. Eligibility to bid release of the spectrum will also help the country to
requires the holding of an Electronic Communication keep pace with the recent fast growth in mobile voice
Network License for the International Market Segment. and data traffic. This is expected to continue as more
The deadline for applications is 2 March 2021. This socio-economic activities are increasingly conducted
isn’t a one-off, however. There’s already been an award online in response to Covid-19 restrictions.
relating to 800MHz in Zambia. In December, again (February 13, 2021) developingtelecoms.com

The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory country’s push for a digital economy. “The only way is
Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) says it is targeting to increase competition and unlock value from that for
data affordability for all citizens while ensuring the benefit of end users and operators,” he said. The
operator viability. In a statement POTRAZ Director regulator is in the next few weeks expected to release
General Dr. Gift Machengete said retail mobile data a report on the state of the telecommunications sector.
Zimbabwe tariffs in Zimbabwe are relatively cheaper compared to The report is expected to set the tone on new projects,
the SADC region and beyond. University of Zimbabwe revenue inflows and spending patterns by operators,
Business School Director, Dr. Nyasha Kaseke said among others.
affordable data charges are key to the success of the (February 28, 2021) zbcnews.co.zw

Disclaimer: Information contained in Member News updates, Regional News updates, Policy & Regulatory updates, Satellite News updates, Tech-
nology News updates, Snapshot of Regulatory News SAMENA Countries, Regulatory News beyond SAMENA region and Wholesale News updates
have been obtained from sources, which we deem reliable. SAMENA Telecommunications Council is not liable for any misinformed decisions that the
reader may reach by being solely reliant on information contained herein. Expert advice should be sought.

150 FEB-MAR 2021