Tanzania’s Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has issued updated regulatory guidelines for the 3600–3800 MHz band, designated for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) services. The move aligns with ITU WRC-23 decisions and supports the nation’s digital transformation under the 2024–2034 Digital Economy Strategic Framework and the National ICT Policy of 2016. These updates are designed to promote fair competition, efficient spectrum use, and broad access to high-speed broadband services across urban and rural areas.
License Term and Renewal
Each license issued for this spectrum will be valid for 15 years. TCRA has upheld this duration despite stakeholder requests to extend it to 25 years. Licenses may be renewed, provided operators demonstrate:
Efficient use of the assigned spectrum
Positive contributions to market competition
Compliance with rollout and technical obligations
Renewal fees (separate from annual spectrum fees) will be determined through future stakeholder consultations, taking into account evolving technology and market conditions.
Spectrum Cap and Auction Staging
To support market fairness, the regulator has implemented a spectrum cap of 140 MHz across the entire 3400–3800 MHz band for the primary auction stage. This includes any spectrum already held by applicants. However, in response to stakeholder feedback, TCRA will not apply this cap during the secondary stage of the auction. This allows operators to acquire additional spectrum if blocks remain unassigned after the primary round. This two-stage approach balances efficient spectrum utilization with competitive safeguards.
TCRA has confirmed that the 3600–3800 MHz spectrum is cleared and ready for deployment. The authority has put in place proactive monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to detect and mitigate any potential interference, ensuring continuous and reliable service for licensees.
Nationwide Coverage and Service Requirements
Operators awarded spectrum in this band will face significant rollout obligations:
Network presence in at least six administrative regions by 2028
Full coverage of all regional administrative headquarters by 2033
Compliance with national Quality-of-Service (QoS) benchmarks under the 2018 QoS Regulations
These measures aim to extend the benefits of IMT services beyond major urban areas.
For this article’s source information and any product certification guidance, please contact Global Validity.
Quick Country Facts
Tanzania
Certification Body: Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA)
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: Indefinite
Application Language: English
Legal License Holder: Manufacturer
In-Country Testing Requirement: Product Specific
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