The communications regulators of the Republic of Congo and the Republic of Angola have reportedly taken what is called a decisive step in bilateral cooperation in the management of radio frequency spectrum to reduce interference problems along the common borders of the two countries.
This followed a meeting between the Postal and Electronic Communications Regulatory Agency (ARPCE) and the Angolan Institute of Communications (INACOM) from 5-7 August in the city of Pointe-Noire. The result of the meeting was a validation of a draft frequency coordination agreement on the common borders, which are 231 kilometres long.
According to Agence Ecofin, this is a response to the need to prevent mutual interference problems and extended coverage that might permit accidental roaming and also to allow equitable access to spectrum resources in border areas.
The parties say that the technical foundations have now been laid to ensure a better quality of service for local populations, while strengthening the spectral sovereignty of each state.
As well as the regulators, operators MTN, Airtel, Congo Telecom and Unitel were represented.
On the technical level, the delegations agreed on the coordination parameters for seven frequency bands, ranging from 700MHz to 3500MHz. They also adopted a set of binding provisions, including limiting coverage to 1,000 metres beyond borders, banning omnidirectional antennas in proximity areas and dismantling irregular points of sale.
These provisions will be notified to operators within 30 days. They will have 60 days from the notification to implement the corrections.
ARPCE discussions are apparently already underway with Cameroon, another country bordering Congo, aimed at achieving another bilateral spectrum coordination agreement.
