The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has commenced its auction process for 4G and 5G-capable spectrum in the 700MHz and 800MHz bands.
The regulator published a ‘Request to Bid’ on 17th February which stipulated that interested parties were required to hold either a Class Comprehensive telecommunications service licence or Individual telecommunications service licence. Bidders must detail their rollout strategy for the next three years, explaining how they will boost broadband coverage in regions where the 4G population coverage is lower than 80%, which is the current national goal.
TeleGeography reports that the airwaves may only be used for 4G or 5G mobile services, with the minimum mobile broadband speed set at 20Mbps. Operators may not use the spectrum for 2G or 3G offerings. Three lots of spectrum will be made available, with each consisting of two paired blocks. Bidders will only be permitted to bid for one lot.
Once the licences have been issued, they will be valid for 10 years, with the option to renew for a further 10 years. The deadline for applications is 17th April 2023, with the participants to be confirmed on 21st April ahead of the bidding, which will take place between 24th and 28th April. The results will be announced on 30th June, with licences set to be issued on 21st August.
