By: Kanto
Kai Okanta
Senegal’s Telecommunications
and Posts Regulatory Authority (ARTP) is playing a key role in ensuring the
availability, quality and security of electronic communications for the Youth
Olympic Games Dakar 2026, the first Olympic sporting event to be held on the
African continent.
The authority’s
responsibilities include managing radio frequency use, monitoring network
performance and ensuring that communications systems supporting competitions,
logistical operations, security and broadcasting operate without disruption.
As part of its preparations,
the ARTP is responsible for the planning, allocation and control of radio
frequencies used during the Games to prevent interference, ensure the
continuity of critical communications and restrict access to official sites to
authorised equipment.
The authority is also
managing frequency requests from accredited organisations, including the
International Olympic Committee, broadcasters, journalists, security services,
sports federations and technical service providers. A dedicated web portal has
been provided to centralise the submission and processing of these requests.
Other activities include
supervising the temporary import and use of wireless equipment, testing and
labelling devices such as walkie-talkies, microphones, mobile cameras and
satellite links, and monitoring assigned frequencies in real time to detect and
resolve interference.
The ARTP is also overseeing
the quality of mobile voice, data and internet services in competition and
crowded areas.
Its operational system
covers the main Games venues in Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly, supported by
testing and labelling centres, fixed monitoring stations, portable
investigation equipment and dedicated monitoring rooms.
