Airtel Networks Zambia Limited has awarded radio spectrum in the 800 MHz frequency band to the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority at a cost of USD12.5 million, part of which will be used to improve the Authority’s spectrum management functions, paving the way for rapid launch of 5G services in Zambia.
A competitive procedure was used in which all eligible foreign network licensees (Mobile Network Operators) were provided with a Request for Bid and Airtel emerged as the winner.
The Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority had decided a few months earlier that the spectrum in the 800MHz band was in very high demand and was therefore required to be subject to a competitive grant procedure.
Via an improved voice user interface that will see quicker call setup, better voice quality and fewer dropped calls, the spectrum is expected to boost the quality of service.
In view of the superior indoor coverage and longer range that this spectrum band supports, mobile broadband coverage is also expected to expand, with substantial increases expected in both urban and rural areas.
Furthermore, the release of the spectrum will help to speed recent rapid growth in mobile and data traffic, as socio-economic activities continue to be conducted online due to the COVID-19 pandemic.