[kictanet] Shared Spectrum Framework for Community Networks for Kenya online discussion

[Mwendwa Kivuva]

Dear Listers,

The tread on Licensing framework is on fire and doing very well. Thank you
all for the contributions, reading, learning, relearning ... Please
continue debating on that thread.

We will start a new thread on the proposed "Shared Spectrum Framework".
The Licensing and Shared Spectrum Framework for Community Networks for
Kenya that was issued by the Communications Authority of Kenya, available
for direct download here
<https://ca.go.ke/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Licensing-and-Shared-Spectrum-Framework-for-Community-Networks-May-2021.docx.pdf>
.


License Exempt Spectrum

WiFi has emerged as a powerful technology for both access and backhaul
around the world but regulation has not fully kept up with the backhaul
developments.

The draft framework recommends:

   -

   Review the Guidelines on the use of Radiofrequency Spectrum by Short
   Range Devices to amend EIRP limits for 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Wi-Fi for
   Point-to-Point and Point-to-Multipoint use.
   -

   Review options for lowering the barrier to use of other license-exempt
   bands for PtP and PtMP use, including 24 GHz and 60 GHz.
   -

   Expand the range of frequencies available for license-exempt use,
   especially in the 5 & 6 GHz range
   -

   To strengthen collaborations with service providers to foster standards
   and regulatory inclusion.


Dynamic Spectrum Access

   -

   To expedite the commercial availability of geolocation database service
   and implement required mechanisms to make the TVWS spectrum available
   immediately to operators.
   -

   To establish an incubatory period for TVWS technologies.
   -

   To evaluate with regional regulators the feasibility of a common
   approach implementation of geolocation databases


IMT Spectrum

   -

   Establish a regulatory sandbox for localised spectrum access for small
   operators in an unassigned LTE band.
   -

   Conduct a review of international approaches to the creation of more
   localised access to spectrum to inform the establishment of a more
   permanent mechanism for local spectrum access that is well adapted to the
   Kenyan context.


Spectrum Fees

   -

   Review spectrum fee framework recognising the need for significantly
   reduced fees for underserved/rural areas.
   -

   Consider a spectrum fee reduction scheme for non-profit community
   networks.


Questions:

   -

   What are your comments on the proposed recommendations?
   -

   What in your opinion are the most important considerations the proposed
   shared spectrum framework should address?
   -

   Are there gaps you have identified in the existing licensing framework
   in respect to spectrum assignment and utilization?
   -

   How would you recommend CA to address the identified gaps?
   ______________________
   Mwendwa Kivuva, Nairobi, Kenya
   https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwendwa-kivuva
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