Description

The 2019 MultiChoice document “Spectrum Management Implementation – Challenges to Accommodate IMT and Broadcasting Services” presented Broadcast Media Africa discusses the complexities of managing radio spectrum in South Africa, particularly in the context of accommodating both International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) and broadcasting services.

It covers the importance of radio frequency spectrum in the modern economy, policy pronouncements by government officials regarding spectrum licensing, and the impact of digital switchover or migration. The document also addresses the challenges faced by broadcasters and IMT services due to delayed digital migration and proposes solutions to these challenges, including the utilisation of spectrum auctions and rapid deployment of subsidised set-top boxes.

Some key points from the resource include:

● Radio Spectrum’s Economic Importance: Recognition of the critical role of radio frequency spectrum in the modern economy.
● Spectrum Licensing Policies: Discussion of government policy pronouncements regarding spectrum allocation and licensing.
● Digital Switch Over Challenges: Issues related to the transition from analogue to digital broadcasting.
● Impact on Broadcasters and IMT Services: The consequences of delayed digital migration for both broadcasters and IMT services.
● Solution Proposals: Suggestions for resolving spectrum management issues, including the use of spectrum auctions.
● Subsidised Set-Top Boxes Deployment: The role of set-top boxes in facilitating digital migration and spectrum reallocation.
● Balancing Broadcasting and Mobile Services: Strategies to accommodate both broadcasting services and IMT within the spectrum management framework.