Learning From Best Practice Spectrum Management in Botswana
The Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority conducted a review of its spectrum management strategy to align with international best practice. The Authority was advised by Coleago and in this paper, Project Director Graham Friend highlights the lessons to be learned for other regulators in developing markets.
In 2019, the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) embarked on modernising its spectrum management strategy to align with global best practices. The initiative, guided by Coleago Consulting, aimed to develop practical recommendations tailored to Botswana’s small market, limited resources, and policy goals. The project focused on areas such as spectrum assignment, pricing, rural coverage, spectrum trading, license renewal, and duration.
Key recommendations included:
New Spectrum Assignment: A transparent, demand-based approach, with auctions implemented when demand exceeds supply. The use of simple auction designs, such as Tanzania’s 700 MHz auction, was encouraged.
Spectrum Pricing: BOCRA adopted a model inspired by the UK’s Ofcom, distinguishing between spectrum access fees and annual usage fees. Prices were to be based on market value, with excess demand addressed through Administered Incentive Pricing (AIP) for congested frequencies. A five-year phased implementation will allow operators time to adapt.
Additional Recommendations:
These included network sharing, coverage obligations in licenses, and spectrum trading. Key policy goals, such as promoting investment, rural coverage, and affordable broadband, were consistently considered throughout the process.
The adoption of this spectrum management strategy is expected to enhance the efficiency of spectrum use, encourage investment, and provide a sustainable model that supports the National Broadband Strategy, ensuring broader access to ICT services across Botswana.
This work provides a valuable case study for other regulators in developing markets, showcasing how strategic alignment with global best practices can foster economic growth, consumer protection, and innovation in the telecommunications sector.
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