What's Happening?
The Republic of Congo and the Republic of Angola have initiated a bilateral cooperation to manage radio frequency spectrum along their shared borders. This development follows a meeting between the Postal and Electronic Communications Regulatory Agency (ARPCE) of Congo and the Angolan Institute of Communications (INACOM) held from August 5-7 in Pointe-Noire. The meeting resulted in the validation of a draft frequency coordination agreement aimed at reducing interference issues along the 231-kilometer border. The agreement seeks to prevent mutual interference and accidental roaming, ensuring equitable access to spectrum resources. Key telecom operators such as MTN, Airtel, Congo Telecom, and Unitel were also involved in the discussions.
AD
Why It's Important?
This agreement is significant as it addresses the technical challenges of spectrum management in border areas, which can lead to interference and service quality issues for local populations. By establishing clear coordination parameters for frequency bands ranging from 700MHz to 3500MHz, the agreement aims to enhance service quality and maintain spectral sovereignty for both nations. The involvement of major telecom operators indicates a collaborative approach to implementing these changes, which could lead to improved telecommunications services and reduced operational disruptions in the region.
What's Next?
The provisions of the agreement, including coverage limitations and the prohibition of omnidirectional antennas near borders, will be communicated to operators within 30 days. Operators will then have 60 days to implement the necessary adjustments. Additionally, ARPCE is reportedly in discussions with Cameroon to establish a similar bilateral spectrum coordination agreement, indicating a broader regional effort to manage spectrum resources effectively.
