Customs barks on behalf of regulator

The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the government through the Ministry of Finance’s Directorate of Customs & Excise for type approval of imported telecommunication equipment used within Namibia.
Speaking at the signing of the MoU, Mr Festus K. Mbandeka CEO of CRAN explained that “Section 80 of the Communications Act, 2009 (Act No. 8 of 2009) authorises CRAN to prescribe reasonable standards applicable to imported telecommunication equipment to ensure against harm to electronic telecommunications and networks, and to protect public health and safety.”
Examples of imported cars with radios that do not work as frequencies are incompatible, and of cellular phones that work on different band widths were stated to help make the case for shutting the gate on electronic equipment that does not comply with local standards or specifications.
Thus the new type approval will not only protect consumers but will help Namibia meet global standards and regulations.
The MoU establishes a framework on equipment approvals and standards at the various border posts. Customs and Excise officials will require permits, certificates and training on imported type-approved equipment, Mbandeka said.
The Regulations in Respect of Type Approval and Technical Standards for Telecommunications equipment are applicable to all persons who use, sell, offer for sale or connect telecommunications equipment to an electronic communications network, and all radio communications equipment or apparatus to be utilised in terms of the Regulations regarding Licence Exempted Spectrum.
The Commissioner of Customs and Excise, Mr Bevan Simataa said the regulations became effective on 26 June 2015 with the grace period for implementation extended to 30 April 2016. All imported equipment that is not type approved by CRAN by30 April 2016 will not be allowed into Namibia.