The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) hosted a public hearing on 14 November 2024 in Windhoek to discuss two crucial topics shaping Namibia’s digital and communications landscape: the Quality of Service (QoS) standards for telecommunications and broadcasting services, and the Spectrum Assignment Strategy for the period 2025 to 2027.
The public hearing was attended by key stakeholders.
Mrs. Emilia Nghikembua, CRAN’s Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the importance of updating QoS standards to ensure that telecommunications and broadcasting services meet the expectations of consumers and businesses throughout Namibia.
The proposed amendments to the regulations aim to enforce measurable quality indicators, such as call completion rates, network availability, and response times, which are essential for accountability and transparency.
These QoS standards were intended to promote fair competition, enhance customer satisfaction, and bridge service quality gaps, particularly in underserved rural areas.
By fostering a level playing field, CRAN’s regulations encouraged investment and innovation in Namibia’s telecommunications sector, ultimately driving improvement in service offerings.
In broadcasting, the updated Quality of Service regulations will address service reliability, content delivery quality, consumer rights protection, and accessibility for all demographics, including people with disabilities.
“CRAN is committed to implementing a rigorous compliance framework, ensuring that broadcasters operate with transparency, fairness, and accountability,” said Mrs Nghikembua.
“The hearing provided a valuable platform for dialogue between CRAN, service providers, and consumer advocates.
“Stakeholder’s insights will help us shape policies that govern telecommunications and broadcasting services in ways that are equitable, responsive, and forward-looking,”
The public hearing also focused on CRAN’s Spectrum Assignment Strategy for the upcoming 2025 to 2027 period. Spectrum is a vital resource for telecommunications, fuelling innovation, economic growth, and connectivity in Namibia.
Mrs. Nghikembua emphasised CRAN’s commitment to efficient spectrum management and alignment with Namibia’s national goals, including Vision 2030 and the National Development Plans (NDP).
CRAN’s strategy prioritises key factors such as innovation, equitable access, regulatory adaptability, and environmental sustainability. These elements will support emerging technologies like 5G, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Artificial Intelligence (AI), which are essential to Namibia’s growth as a knowledge-based economy.
CRAN also plans to review spectrum fee regulations in 2026 and introduce fees for mobile services spectrum bands, as determined by the World Radiocommunication Conference 2023 (WRC-23).
This approach ensures that spectrum management is financially sustainable and responsive to evolving technological needs.
Nghikembua urged all stakeholders to contribute to the strategy’s development.
“The success of our Spectrum Assignment Strategy depends on collaborative efforts from all stakeholders. Together, we can ensure a competitive, inclusive digital economy that benefits all Namibians.”
CRAN will continue to engage stakeholders and invite feedback to ensure that both the QoS regulations and Spectrum Assignment Strategy align with the needs of the industry and the Namibian public.
The Authority remains committed to enhancing telecommunications and broadcasting services, fostering innovation, and creating a regulatory framework that promotes accessibility, accountability, and sustainability.
In the photo: Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN)’s CEO Mrs Emilia Nghikembua.
