By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
South Africa’s Minister of
Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, has approved the 2026
National Radio Frequency Plan (NRFP), paving the way for expanded broadband
connectivity, enhanced Wi-Fi access and improved spectrum management to support
the country’s growing digital economy.
The approval marks a
significant milestone for South Africa’s communications, broadcasting and
digital technology sectors, providing a framework for the efficient allocation
and management of radio frequency spectrum.
According to a statement
issued on Tuesday, the National Radio Frequency Plan, developed by the
Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), serves as the
country's master spectrum framework, defining how radio frequencies are
allocated, the services they support and the conditions under which they may be
used.
Minister Malatsi said the
plan will help unlock the full potential of radio spectrum by creating
opportunities to expand broadband access, strengthen broadcasting services and
support critical sectors of the economy.
The Minister noted that
spectrum remains a vital national resource underpinning mobile communications,
television and radio broadcasting, Wi-Fi services and emergency communications,
making effective planning essential for reliable and affordable digital
services.
The updated plan aligns
South Africa’s frequency allocations with the International Telecommunication
Union (ITU) Radio Regulations and relevant regional frameworks, enabling
seamless international roaming, greater device interoperability and lower equipment
costs through global economies of scale.
The approval follows an
extensive review process led by ICASA, including public consultations and
hearings held in January 2026, as required under the Electronic Communications
Act.
The 2026 plan incorporates
decisions adopted at the 2023 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-23),
ensuring South Africa’s spectrum framework remains aligned with international
standards and emerging technological developments.
The framework will enable
ICASA to implement spectrum migration where necessary, develop Radio Frequency
Assignment Plans and issue future Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for additional
spectrum to support the continued expansion of mobile broadband services.
A key feature of the plan is
the allocation of additional licence-exempt spectrum for Wi-Fi deployment,
aimed at expanding connectivity in rural and underserved communities while
lowering barriers to entry for smaller service providers.
Government expects the
additional Wi-Fi spectrum to encourage greater competition, reduce the cost of
internet access, improve connectivity for schools and public services, and
contribute to narrowing the country's digital divide.
The plan also allocates
spectrum for essential services, including aeronautical, maritime, scientific
and research applications, ensuring critical sectors continue to benefit from
reliable and efficient access to radio frequencies.
The government said
implementation of the 2026 National Radio Frequency Plan is expected to
stimulate investment, support innovation, expand universal access to
communications services and strengthen South Africa’s position in the global
digital economy.
