Spectrum collects lucrative revenues

Delegates to an advanced spectrum management workshop jointly organised by CRASA, and the GSMA and hosted by Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN), were told this week that spectrum is non-exhaustible and non-storable, that it does not run out, but it may become congested resulting in its uneconomic use. 

Addressing the workshop, the Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Hon Joel Kapaanda said spectrum requires prudent management to ensure equitable access and efficient utilisation to meet future needs of all aforesaid stakeholders. The effective and optimal management of spectrum can only take place within a conducive regulatory framework where legislation, regulations, strategy and procedures are prevalent. “Over the last decade, the management of spectrum has become one of the most regulated national resources. This regulation was necessitated by the evolution of telecommunication technologies, which increased congestion in some frequency bands. The demand that technology is placing on spectrum has spurred the ITU and the member states to devise strategies and plans to not only preserve, but to ensure maximum utilization of allocated spectrum” the minister elaborated. “Namibia’s policy makers, myself included, have appreciated the importance of protecting this finite natural resource for the current and future benefit of Namibian ICT consumers. At the same time, my Ministry understands that it will have to facilitate innovative and efficient use of spectrum to achieve Namibia’s Vision 2030 goals of increased access to ICT infrastructure, greater competition, and diverse telecommunication service offerings,” the minister said adding that with the support of the the ministry, the authority will continue to modernise spectrum planning, allocation and monitoring activities.