The Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM) has issued Notice 12026, launching a draft Terrestrial Fixed Services Band Plan open for stakeholder feedback. This update aligns Eswatini's spectrum management with the National Frequency Allocation Plan (NFAP) 2025, SADC regional guidelines, ITU-R standards, and recent World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-23) decisions.​

Plan Highlights

The document outlines channelling arrangements across 20+ frequency bands from 1.4 GHz to 94 GHz, supporting fixed wireless backhaul, broadcasting, and high-capacity data links. Key features include multiple bandwidth options (1-224 MHz), duplex spacings, and technology-neutral policies to boost innovation and efficiency.​

• Lower bands (1.4-7 GHz): Narrower channels (2-56 MHz) for rural long-haul, per ITU-R F.1242 and F.385.​

• Mid/high bands (11-38 GHz): Wider options for urban density and 5G backhaul.​

• mmWave (70-94 GHz): Up to 500 MHz channels for ultra-high capacity.​

Compliance Challenges

ESCCOM identifies non-standard assignments by operators like MTN Eswatini and Eswatini Mobile in bands such as 7 GHz and 18 GHz, urging realignment through consultations and per-link licensing.​

The plan promotes harmonized spectrum use under the Electronic Communications Act 2013. Stakeholders must submit comments as required by Radiocommunications Regulations 2016 to finalize the framework