The Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM) has officially published General Notice No. 3/2026, establishing a new Fixed Terrestrial Services Band Plan. This update replaces the previous 2022 framework to align with the outcomes of the World Radiocommunication Conference 2023 (WRC-23) and the SADC Frequency Allocation Plan (Edition 2025).
The 2026 Plan emphasizes technology neutrality and regional harmonization, impacting several key frequency bands used for data transmission and network infrastructure. Manufacturers of radio networking equipment should take note of the specific allocations and channelling arrangements now in effect.
Key Frequency Allocations
The 2026 Plan emphasizes technology neutrality and regional harmonization, impacting several key frequency bands used for data transmission and network infrastructure. Manufacturers of radio networking equipment should take note of the specific allocations and channelling arrangements now in effect.
Key Frequency Allocations
- 1.4 GHz Band: Optimized for low- and medium-capacity systems over long distances.
- 18 GHz, 23 GHz, and 26 GHz Bands: Designated for 4G and 5G mobile backhaul, with the 26 GHz band specifically targeting 5G small cells in high-density areas.
- 28 GHz Band: Identified as a primary band for urban 5G rollout.
- 70/80 GHz (E-Band) and 94 GHz: Allocated for high-capacity, multi-Gbps fiber-alternative services.
Technical and Compliance Requirements: The plan introduces standardized channelling arrangements with bandwidth options ranging from 2 MHz to 500 MHz. Notable technical parameters include:
- Defined transmitter-receiver duplex spacings to support Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) operations across most bands.
- Mandatory migration for devices currently operating on non-conforming frequency assignments.
- A per-link assignment regime, requiring prior coordination and approval from the Commission for each link deployed.
Manufacturers and operators must evaluate their current equipment deployments to ensure alignment with the new technical parameters derived from relevant ITU-R Recommendations. Migration to the 2026 Plan is mandatory and will be implemented progressively in coordination with ESCCOM to manage spectrum efficiency.
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