Communications Authority Wins Global Award For Innovative Policies

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) on Thursday this week won a global award for innovation in formulating policies that enhance efficient utilisation of spectrum.

The award by the Dynamic Spectrum Alliance (DSA) was announced at a virtual event at the three-day DSA Global Summit, which ended on 5 November.

This award recognises one policy-maker or regulator who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in adopting and implementing policies making more spectrum available on an opportunistic basis.

The Authority has in recent years demonstrated a conviction improving the well-being of Kenya’s citizens by implementing rural connectivity initiatives, using shared spectrum.

Tom Olwero, the Director Frequency Spectrum Management, received the award on behalf of the Director-General, Mercy Wanjau.

In his acceptance of the award, Olwero said that the authority is committed to improving broadband internet access by incorporating innovative spectrum access techniques in the spectrum management approach.

In the 2018-2023 strategic plan, the Authority is developing dynamic spectrum access frameworks targeting under-utilised spectrum resources in unserved and underserved areas.

“The first framework covers the use of TV white spaces while the second framework will cover spectrum use by community networks. A third framework is planned to core a neutral host approach for mobile networks and dynamic spectrum access to improve mobile broadband internet access in Kenya,” said Olwero.

The authority has regularly been engaging stakeholders, including the academic and industry, supported by the DSA to discuss the technical aspects of dynamic spectrum management. The authority has developed a framework for use of TV whitespace, which is scheduled for approval later this month.

The Authority has partnered with Strathmore University of Kenya and Strathclyde University of the UK to investigate opportunities for various spectrum models in Kenya. TV whitespace research programs are supported by the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID) and the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.