By:Nghiinomenwa-vali Erastus

THE successful bidders for radio frequency spectrum in the 703-788 MHz and 790-862 MHz bands, announced last week, have been directed to increase 4G coverage to a minimum of 80% in six regions.
This directive comes from the Communication Regulatory Authority Namibia (CRAN).
The six regions affected by this mandate are Kunene, Zambezi, Otjozondjupa, Omaheke, Hardap, and Kavango West, all of which currently have 4G network coverage below 80%.
The spectrum auction, which took place on September 29, 2023, allocated spectrum to Loc8 Mobile (Lot A), Telecom Namibia Limited (Lot B), and Mobile Telecommunications Limited (C), with the three entities collectively paying approximately N$ 28.5 million for the spectrum.
These spectrum allocations are intended to facilitate the expansion of 4G and 5G services, benefiting both urban and rural communities.
To ensure wider access to improved telecommunications networks, CRAN has imposed specific licence conditions on the successful bidders.
These conditions require the bidders to enhance their 4G population coverage in the identified regions to at least 80%.
CRAN’s Chief Executive Officer, Emilia Nghikembua, emphasised that these spectrum awards mark a significant milestone in the regulator’s mission to enhance access to telecommunications services in Namibia.
Additionally, they represent a crucial step toward realising the potential of the fourth industrial revolution, driven by technological innovation.
The deployment of 5G use cases in sectors such as agriculture, education, healthcare, and e-government services is expected to be a significant outcome of these spectrum awards.
To further support technological advancement, CRAN has also authorised a three-month testing/trial period for 5G services and networks, ending on December 31, 2023.
Nghikembua highlighted that this authorisation aligns with the 5G Strategy and the Broadband Policy, reinforcing the commitment to promoting technological innovation and supporting Namibia’s social and economic growth.
As an ICT regulator, Nghikembua added that CRAN plays a pivotal role in harnessing the power of ICT to transcend the limitations of “place” and “time” thereby transforming Namibia into an active knowledge-based society that fully leverages the socio-economic benefits of ICTs.
The release of the spectrum roadmap for the period 2022 to 2024 was designed to provide licensees with regulatory certainty regarding available spectrum for assignment.
This initiative aims to facilitate the rollout of telecommunications networks and the implementation of emerging technologies, platforms, and applications, ultimately benefiting end-users.
erastus@thevillager.com.na