INTRODUCTION

The radio frequency spectrum is a natural resource used to provide various Telecommunications applications and services. The regulated spectrum ranges from 9 KHz to 400 GHz. As a limited natural resource, the spectrum must be used in a most efficient manner. Radio waves respect has no man-made boundaries hence the need for national and international coordinated effort to regulate it's utilization.

MANAGEMENT OF THE SPECTRUM

The use of radio spectrum is administered on behalf of the government by the Communications Authority. The Authority was created through an Act of Parliament in 1994. The Telecommunications Act, Cap 469 spells out, the functions of the Authority and requirements for the establishment and operation of the Telecommunications network and systems. The Radiocommunications Act Cap 169, outlines the manner in which the Spectrum should be regulated in Zambia. Internationally the Radio regulations have been established by member countries of the International Telecommunications Union. The Radio Regulations have allocated Spectrum to various radiocommunications services worldwide, so as to create harmonise assignment of frequencies by countries to specific radio station. The common radiocommunication services are land mobile aeronautical and maritime services, fixed, satellite broadcasting, radio amateur and meteorological aids.

APPLICATION FOR A RADIO COMMUNICATION LICENCE

PROCESS

Stage 1	Applicant obtains application form.
Stage 2	Applicant completes the form and submits it to the Communications Authority together with the covering letter of justification for the service applied for.
Stage 3	The applicant submits a copy of the Company Registration from the Registrar of Companies.
Stage 4	Application form is handed in together with non refundable processing fee. Currently K15,000.00
Stage 5	Application is analysed, summarized and submitted to the Controller for consideration.
Stage 6	Applicant is notified of the decision.
Stage 7	Applicant pays the necessary fee if the application is approved. If it is not approved the applicant is informed accordingly.
Stage 8	The Licence is prepared and issued showing the frequency and other conditions of usage.

NOTE: Application for broadcasting licences should be channelled through the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for initial consideration.

Click here for the 'Radio Communications Schedule Of License Fees'

SPECIAL GUIDELINES FOR THE USE OF RADIO FREQUENCY

• No Monopoly On Frequency Usage

  The Communications Authority allocates frequencies to ensure equitable access on non-discriminatory basis. However an assignment of a frequency or frequencies to a radio station does not confer monopoly to the use, nor should issuance of a licence for a station be construed as conforming exclusive rights to the use of a frequency or frequencies.

• Interference

  All Spectrum users are encouraged to utilize the Spectrum as per the Licence guidelines and avoid causing interference to stations of other systems. Deliberate cause of interference is unlawful.

• Protection of Distress and Safety Communications

  Users of the Spectrum are encouraged to respect communications mainly for the protection of life and property.

• Identification of Stations

  In order to facilitate investigations into the causes of interference, operators of radio stations are advised to identify their stations regularly as applicable by using station signs assigned to them by the Authority.

  If you would like additional information contact:
  The Radio Frequency Department
  The Communications Authority
  P o Box 36871
  Lusaka
  

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