The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) has published the International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) Roadmap 2026 and its accompanying draft implementation plans for public consultation.

This marks an important step towards expanding broadband access and preparing South Africa for future mobile technologies.

The roadmap, to be implemented over the next five to 10 years, provides a long-term framework for the planning, management and assignment of radio frequency spectrum required for current and future generations of mobile broadband, including IMT-2030 technologies.

“The publication supports South Africa's national objectives of expanding broadband connectivity, reducing the digital divide and creating an enabling environment for investment and innovation, as outlined in the National Development Plan 2030 and the SA Connect Broadband Policy,” Icasa said in an accompanying statement, noting that a strategic outcome-oriented goal is to facilitate investment in broadband infrastructure and improve access to broadband spectrum.

The authority's primary aim is to ensure the efficient use of radio frequency spectrum, increase access to broadband services and promote a competitive telecommunications sector that supports economic growth and universal connectivity.

The efficient assignment and use of high-demand spectrum is critical to improving broadband access, stimulating economic growth and ensuring South Africa remains globally competitive in the digital economy.

Icasa aims to increase the amount of broadband spectrum available for assignment from the current 850 MHz to at least 18 588 MHz by 2030.

“A key component of the roadmap is the planned deployment of additional IMT frequency bands identified in the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Radio Regulations 2024. These frequency bands are essential for supporting growing demand for mobile broadband services and achieving the national objective of broadband for all.”

To support the implementation of the roadmap, Icasa has also published, for public consultation, the Draft Radio Frequency Spectrum Assignment Plans for various IMT frequency bands; feasibility studies relating to the identified IMT spectrum bands; and Draft Exclusive Geographic Areas for millimetre-wave IMT spectrum in the 24.25 GHz to 27.5 GHz, 37.5 GHz to 43.5 GHz, 45.5 GHz to 47 GHz and 47.2 GHz to 48.2 GHz bands.

The proposed measures are intended to increase the amount of high-demand spectrum available by about 215%.

The final Radio Frequency Spectrum Assignment Plans will form the basis for future Invitations to Apply for spectrum licensing in terms of the Radio Frequency Spectrum Regulations 2015.

The development of the IMT Roadmap and its implementation plans is undertaken in accordance with sections 30, 31 and 34 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2005, and aligns with international developments, including decisions of the World Radiocommunication Conference 2023 and the ITU Radiocommunication Assembly 2023, which confirmed IMT-2030 as the designation for the next generation of International Mobile Telecommunications.