Sentech, the state-owned signal distributor, is set to return both its 2.6 GHz and 3.5 GHz spectrum to the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA).
Setumo Mohapi, chief executive of Sentech, addressed the press at an event in Roodepoort, Johannesburg, and said the decision was made following consideration of Sentech’s involvement with the Department of Communications’ (DoC) plans for the national broadband network.
Industry players and analysts had reportedly called for the spectrum to be removed from Sentech’s responsibility long before this decision was made.
Sentech previously held 50MHz in the 2.6GHz band and 14MHz in the 3.5GHz band.
It is believed the decision by Sentech will assist in simplifying ICASA’s responsibility of assigning the 2.6GHz band, which will enable the authority to implement Long Term Evolution (LTE) at a later stage.
