adminNyore Madzianike Manicaland Bureau
The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) on Tuesday launched the Zimbabwe National Frequency Allocation Plan (ZNFAP) blueprint, which speaks on the access and use of radio frequency spectrum resources in the country.
The blueprint is meant to update changes to the 2014 document on the Global Frequency Plan.
Information Communication Technology and Cyber Security Minister Supa Mandiwanzira, who was guest of honour at the event, said radio spectrum was a major input in technology-driven economies and connected societies.
“Clearly, the availability of spectrum is now a pre-condition for a strong national digital infrastructure,” he said. “Allow me, ladies and gentlemen, to underline the increasing importance of radio frequency spectrum to our economy and to our daily lives, our citizens, young, middle and elderly citizens.”
Minister Mandiwanzira said spectrum was the “oxygen of today’s economy”, which was increasingly becoming more digital. He said radio systems and applications had also become an integral part in socio-economic activities such as security and defence, navigation and smart agriculture.
“The majority of industry is developing around radio spectrum resources,” said Minister Mandiwanzira. “Spectrum-based services have thus continued to yield economic benefits through the creation of employment, increased production capacity, rural integration and capacity utilisation.”
Government, he said, should develop a clear and comprehensive radio frequency policy that would ensure that the country was not left out in the New World Order.
“Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to underline that the demand for spectrum resources is on the increase and if we continue with that trajectory in the foreseeable future, the need for us to address the legacy issues relating to social inclusion and connect the unconnected can never be washed away,” he said.
After launching the ZNFAP blueprint, Minister Mandiwanzira toured the Sakubva Community Information Centre, where he was accompanied by various guests from other communications organisations. Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs Senator Monica Mutsvangwa was represented by director of affairs in her office, Mr Kennedy Mugarisanwa.
Online Reporter