Dr. Bashir Gwandu, former Acting Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has urged African nations to harness the full potential of low-band spectrum for the deployment of fifth-generation (5G) mobile technology. He highlighted the significant economic benefits of 5G, estimating that it could generate approximately $130 billion in economic value across the continent by 2030.
Speaking at the 9th Sub-Sahara Spectrum Management Conference 2024, held in Nairobi, Kenya, from November 6-7, Dr. Gwandu made a detailed presentation during the session titled “The Shape of Post-WRC Spectrum Ecosystems.” This session was part of the conference’s third theme: “From WRC-23 to WRC-27 – Emerging Landscapes & Technologies and the Path Ahead.” The conference, organized by Forum Global, brought together global telecom leaders and experts to discuss the future of spectrum management in Sub-Saharan Africa.
In his presentation, Dr. Gwandu emphasized the crucial role that low-band spectrum, such as the 600MHz frequency, will play in expanding 5G networks across Africa. He highlighted how these frequencies can enhance connectivity, providing wider coverage, especially in rural areas, where access to fast and reliable internet remains a challenge. By utilizing these lower frequencies, African countries could ensure that 5G reaches a broader population, driving digital inclusion and fostering economic growth.
Dr. Gwandu, who has chaired several influential bodies within the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Commonwealth, including the ITU Radiocommunications Advisory Group (RAG) and the Joint Task Group, was instrumental in shaping global telecom policies. His involvement has spanned decades, with key contributions to ITU policy development and coordination across the African continent. He was also a founding figure in establishing the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC) coordination meetings, which have been vital in unifying Africa’s telecom strategies.
During his remarks, Dr. Gwandu underscored the importance of African nations working together to allocate and optimize spectrum usage effectively. He stressed that the 600MHz band, in particular, could provide a strong foundation for future 5G networks, enabling seamless communication between devices, reducing latency, and delivering faster data speeds. According to him, making the most of low-band spectrum would not only accelerate 5G rollout but also drive advancements in other emerging technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart cities, which rely on efficient and widespread connectivity.
Dr. Gwandu further pointed out that as global telecommunications trends evolve, African nations must be proactive in adopting innovative solutions to bridge the digital divide. He urged African governments, regulatory bodies, and industry stakeholders to collaborate in setting policies that would facilitate spectrum allocation for 5G development. With the upcoming World Radiocommunication Conferences (WRC) set to influence global spectrum management, he called on Africa to strengthen its position by coordinating efforts across the continent.
In addition to its potential for transforming the telecom industry, Dr. Gwandu noted that the economic impact of 5G would extend into various sectors, including healthcare, education, agriculture, and transportation. By leveraging 5G technology, Africa could unlock new opportunities for innovation, enhance productivity, and improve the overall quality of life for millions of people.
The 9th Sub-Sahara Spectrum Management Conference concluded with a call to action for African countries to prioritize spectrum management as a key driver of economic growth and digital transformation.
