Regional Spectrum Issues

Transcription

1 Regional Spectrum Issues a presentation to ITU s RRS 2017 Africa, 27 31, Dakar Senegal Kezias MWALE Radiocommunications Coordinator k.mwale@atu-uat.org Slide 1 of 12

2 There are many issues: some good and some not-so-good Slide 2 of 12

3 In terms of spectrum allocation/identification for IMT, Africa has the highest amount. Yet, utilization averages lower than 50% and that most of usage is in urban areas. Much of rural Africa is yet to be covered by BB, and yet we have ample spectrum identified. There is need to ensure the spectrum is utilized to get better benefit of the resource. NB: Low spectrum utilization is a symptom of the wider issues regarding economies and investment in ICTs. Slide 3 of 12

4 Optimized spectrum usage calls for robust monitoring: modern equipment and fully dedicated and trained engineers. In many countries, this is not the case due to various reasons such as cost and lack of appreciation. Slide 4 of 12

5 Active participation has improved in recent past. Africa even chaired the WRC-15, and current chair of the Radio Advisory Group (RAG). However, more needs to be done. Notification and general coordination of frequency use is very low, especially satellite frequencies. There is need to full learn, master and use the high-tech ITU tools and ensure RR rules of procedure are fully implemented. RRS 2017 Africa is once again a great opportunity!!!! Slide 5 of 12

6 Visible follow-up of RR provisions relating to IMT spectrum and preparations for future WRCs is good. Also, the region did great with DTT re-planning to allow for DD2. However, there is need to do the same for other services such as maritime (e.g. frequency use modernization provisions), aeronautical, etc. Slide 6 of 12

7 No major difficulty is foreseen in making ample spectrum for 5G either by re-farming the existing IMT identifications or new identification at WRC-19. Global harmonization remains a key goal and commitment of the region, while bearing in mind the key aspect of coverage. Clearly identification not bottleneck: Allocation of spectrum to meet 5G system requirements should NOT a problem. However, other issues, such as investment climate, remain a challenge. Slide 7 of 12

8 In many countries, spectrum management is not fully based on economic aspects of spectrum in terms of licensing, refarming, policy formulation, etc. Also, medium term and long term strategies are lacking in many countries. There is need to manage spectrum, as a crucial resource, on modern economic principles and modern utilization mechanisms such as sharing. Slide 8 of 12

9 Africa is HUGE. This entails that sub-regions act more cooperatively. There are good signs that this is happening. Naturally, more needs to be done in terms of spectrum use guideline formulation and adherence. Slide 9 of 12

10 Africa remains the most rural continent. Also, we have the rain forest. There is therefore need to develop propagation models suited to Africa. Slide 10 of 12

11 There are many issues: some good and some not-so-good. We hope the region can address the not-so-good as soon as possible. Slide 11 of 12

12 Thank you Kezias MWALE Radiocommunications Coordinator Slide 12 of 12