WATRA unveils framework to regulate NGSO satellite services in West Africa

The West Africa Telecommunications Regulators Assembly (WATRA) has developed framework aimed at regulating the Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbits (NGSO) services across West Africa.

Satellites have played a significant role in the connectivity ecosystem since decades. While terrestrial networks address mostly dense urban areas, satellites enable seamless communication across remote and underserved regions.

However, the recent growth of NGSO satellite constellations has raised new issues for policy makers and regulators to explore and tackle.

In a statement dated 13th September, 2024, the Executive Secretary of WATRA, Aliyu Aboki, stressed the importance of ensuring a stable and secure telecommunications sector.

“The introduction of NGSO services has brought new technological capabilities to the region, but it has also introduced complex regulatory issues that cannot be ignored. This framework is a necessary step to protect the investments of our Member States, ensure national security, and maintain a fair and competitive market”, Aboki said.

Stressing the need for the framework to ensure understanding of licencing regime for NGSO across board, he noted, “One of the core elements of the framework is the development of a clear licensing regime for NGSO services. The Ad hoc Working Group recommends that Member States create transparent guidelines outlining the requirements, fees, and timelines for licensing satellite services. The framework emphasizes the need for flexibility to accommodate the dynamic nature of NGSOs, while also ensuring that all stakeholders, from private operators to government entities, understand the scope of the licenses issued.

“In addition to licensing guidelines, the framework addresses security concerns that arise from the transborder coverage of NGSO services. The Ad hoc Working Group recommends that Member States incorporate cybersecurity and data protection measures into their regulatory frameworks, ensuring that NGSO operators comply with national security laws. The working group also encourages collaboration between Member States to monitor and manage the cross-border use of NGSO services, which could otherwise infringe on territorial integrity and result in economic losses.

“NGSO services provide tremendous benefits in terms of connectivity, especially in underserved regions, but we must ensure that they are deployed responsibly. Our framework not only protects national borders but also supports innovation and technological progress, ensuring that all Member States can benefit from these advancements.”