The auction targets the 3300 3400 MHz spectrum band a mid band frequency specifically designed for Mobile International Mobile Telecommunications IMT services This band offers a balance between high speeds and coverage range making it ideal for 5G applications
To facilitate targeted development the spectrum allocation will be region based focusing on five key regions Khomas Region Erongo Region Oshana Region and any other region identified by the licensee Each spectrum block will be assigned on a contiguous basis of 80MHz per lot with a reserve price set at N$5 million per lot over a 10 year period
The bidding process is currently underway with the submission and consideration of monetary bids for Round 2 due by 27 October 2023 Successful bidders are required to make their auction price payments no later than 9 December 2023
In parallel with the auction CRAN has launched a 5G consumer awareness campaign to educate the public about the benefits of 5G technology dispel myths and misinformation and highlight the potential opportunities it presents for various industries
The introduction of 5G presents various opportunities in economic sectors including finance tourism health education mining transport and the Green Hydrogen Project emphasised Emilia Nghikembua CEO of CRAN
5G is an economic enabler and does not cause COVID 19
While acknowledging the transformative potential of 5G CRAN Board Vice Chair Elvis Nashilongo cautioned about the potential risks associated with technological advancements such as cybercrime privacy concerns and infringement on constitutional rights
Government is working on initiatives such as the Implementation of the National Cybersecurity Strategy SIM Registration establishment of the NAM CSIRT and finalisation of the Cybercrime Bill and Data Protection Bill to adequately deal with these eventualities Nashilongo stated
This second 5G spectrum auction builds upon CRANs previous auction of spectrum below 1GHz which generated approximately N$285 million and resulted in the issuance of 5G licenses to Loc8 Mobile Telecom Namibia Limited and Mobile Telecommunications Limited
With the roll out of 5G technology Namibia is poised to reap the benefits of enhanced connectivity improved communication and a surge in innovation across various sectors paving the way for a more connected and prosperous future
