02-07-2026
| The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) has issued draft regulations introducing a framework for Dynamic Spectrum Access (DSA) and Opportunistic Spectrum Management. The proposal aims to enable the use of underutilized spectrum on a secondary basis, without causing interference to primary license holders, supporting innovation in wireless communications. The framework focuses on the 3800–4200 MHz and 5925–6425 MHz bands and introduces a geolocation database system referred to as the Unified Spectrum Switch (USS), which will coordinate spectrum access for compliant devices. Under the proposal, new Innovation Spectrum Devices (ISDs) will be introduced, categorized as master and client devices. All ISDs will require mandatory type approval and inclusion in the national Equipment Authorization Register. Devices must be frequency-agile, capable of interfacing with the USS, and able to cease transmission within 60 seconds upon instruction. The framework also defines EIRP limits based on deployment conditions and includes updated labelling requirements aligned with the Equipment Authorization Regulations, 2022. If adopted, the regulations are expected to impact product design, certification timelines, and market entry planning for manufacturers targeting the South African market, particularly for devices operating in the affected frequency bands |
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