South Africa  ICASA released the Draft National Radio Frequency Plan (NRFP) 2025 for public consultation on April 7, 2025. The plan outlines the allocation and management of radio frequencies from 8.3 kHz to 3000 GHz across South Africa, covering essential services like mobile networks, satellite systems, internet access, and emergency communications. Its goal is to ensure efficient spectrum use, promote fair access, and support the country’s development while aligning with global technological progress.

The Draft NRFP 2025 aligns with global and regional frameworks such as WRC-23, ITU Radio Regulations 2024 (Region 1), the SADC Frequency Allocation Plan, and the African Spectrum Allocation Plan.

 Key Highlights of the Draft NRFP 2025

Enabling 6G and Advanced Networks:

• The Draft NRFP 2025 updates IMT frequency bands to support the rollout of 6G networks in South Africa.

  
  

• Key benefits include enhanced mobile broadband, massive machine-type communication for IoT, and ultra-reliable, low-latency communication for critical applications like remote surgery, autonomous vehicles, and smart cities.

  
  

Safeguarding Satellite and Climate Monitoring Services:

• The Draft NRFP 2025 ensures special protections for essential services such as Earth Exploration Satellite Services (EESS), meteorological systems, and Space Research Services (SRS).

  
  

• These services are vital for monitoring weather, climate, and disasters, requiring interference-free spectrum to function properly.

  
  

Reliable Connectivity for Travel and Emergencies:

• The plan designates frequencies for Earth Stations in Motion (ESIMs), enabling high-speed internet access on airplanes, ships, and trains.

  
  

• It also ensures reliable communication during natural disasters and emergencies, improving connectivity in critical situations.

  
  

Promoting Inclusive Connectivity:

• The Draft NRFP 2025 prioritizes spectrum for rural and underserved communities, small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), marginalized groups like youth, women, and persons with disabilities.

  
  

• The focus is on promoting digital inclusion and providing equal access to economic opportunities across South Africa.

  
  

​Chairperson Mothibi Ramusi has emphasized the importance of spectrum harmonization in ensuring affordable devices, reliable services, and economic growth across all regions of South Africa, not just urban areas. He highlighted that wireless technology remains the most effective means to expand broadband access nationwide.

ICASA invites stakeholders, industry players, and citizens to review and comment on the Draft NRFP 2025 by 30 May 2025 at 16h00.For more information regarding South Africa’s ICASA Regulatory update, feel free to contact us at info@nanotechsol.com.

To access the official document click here