South Africa has updated its national spectrum framework to reflect recent international and regional developments. The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa, or ICASA, published the South Africa NRFP 2026 under section 34 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2005. The official plan covers frequencies from 8.3 kHz to 3000 GHz.
The new National Radio Frequency Plan follows approval by the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies and replaces the previous version based on WRC-19 outcomes. It incorporates decisions from the 2023 World Radiocommunication Conference and aligns South Africa’s national allocations with the 2024 Edition of the International Telecommunication Union Radio Regulations.
Additionally, the plan reflects relevant regional frameworks, including the African Telecommunications Union Spectrum Assignment Plan and the SADC Frequency Allocation Plan.
South Africa NRFP 2026 and the 6 GHz band
One of the most relevant developments concerns the 6 GHz spectrum range.
The lower 6 GHz band, from 5925 to 6425 MHz, is listed for Wireless Access Systems and Radio Local Area Networks, or WAS/RLAN. This allocation supports the use of wireless technologies operating in this range, including equipment designed for newer Wi-Fi generations.
However, the plan also notes that ICASA intends to develop a Radio Frequency Spectrum Assignment Plan for the 5925–6425 MHz band.
For the upper 6 GHz range, the plan identifies portions of the 6425–7125 MHz band for International Mobile Telecommunications using time-division duplex operation. ICASA also indicates that it intends to conduct a feasibility study and develop the corresponding spectrum assignment framework.
Therefore, manufacturers and network stakeholders should distinguish between an allocation or identification in the NRFP and the additional regulatory instruments that may still be required before deployment.
HIBS and next-generation mobile connectivity
The NRFP 2026 incorporates High Altitude Platform Stations acting as IMT base stations, commonly known as HIBS.
HIBS applications are included across several frequency ranges, including:
- 694–960 MHz
- 1710–1980 MHz
- 2010–2025 MHz
- 2110–2170 MHz
For the 694–960 MHz range, the plan references WRC-23 Resolution 213. ICASA states that it intends to develop regulatory frameworks and guidelines addressing the relationship between HIBS and IMT systems.
Similarly, the plan includes HIBS applications in the 1710–1980 MHz, 2010–2025 MHz, and 2110–2170 MHz bands and references Resolution 221 as revised at WRC-23.
Updates for SRD, medical devices, RFID and IoT
The plan incorporates provisions from South Africa’s amended Radio Frequency Spectrum Regulations, including Notice 1822 of May 2023.
For example, the frequency table includes inductive short-range communications, RFID applications and Ultra-Low Power Active Medical Implants. ULP-AMI applications are identified across frequencies extending from 9 kHz to 315 kHz.
Moreover, the 450–470 MHz range includes IMT450, Internet of Things and machine-to-machine applications. The plan connects these applications to the amended Radio Frequency Spectrum Regulations and relevant ITU-R provisions.
These entries are particularly relevant to manufacturers and suppliers of connected devices, telemetry products, RFID systems, medical implants and other short-range wireless equipment.
DAB+ digital radio applications
The NRFP 2026 also reflects South Africa’s framework for digital sound broadcasting.
DAB+ services are identified in the 214–240 MHz range. The plan references the Digital Sound Broadcasting Services Regulations, 2021, as well as relevant ITU-R recommendations.
Consequently, manufacturers of radio receivers and vehicle infotainment systems should consider these allocations when evaluating frequency compatibility for the South African market.
Electronic access to frequency information
ICASA also announced the introduction of an Electronic Frequency Information System. The digital portal is intended to improve online access to frequency allocation information for stakeholders and the public.
This initiative complements the NRFP by supporting a more accessible and transparent spectrum information environment.
What should manufacturers consider?
The NRFP 2026 establishes South Africa’s updated national spectrum allocation framework. Companies developing Wi-Fi, IMT, IoT, SRD, HIBS, medical, RFID or digital broadcasting equipment should review whether their supported frequency ranges and operating characteristics correspond with the new plan.
Nevertheless, the NRFP does not, by itself, describe a universal change to every existing type approval certificate. Product-specific requirements should be assessed against applicable spectrum regulations, assignment plans and ICASA certification procedures.
Organizations can follow these developments through Entirety’s Regulatory Intelligence Service, which supports the monitoring and assessment of wireless technology and spectrum changes across global markets.
Impact Assesment
- Technical Standards?
Yes - Type Approval & Market Access? Yes
- Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance? Yes
- Spectrum Management? Yes
