The Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM) has issued General Notice No. 3/2026, which establishes the updated Fixed Terrestrial Services Band Plan for Eswatini. This plan replaces the 2022 version to align with international standards following the outcomes of the World Radiocommunication Conference 2023 (WRC-23) and the SADC Frequency Allocation Plan (Edition 2025). The plan is governed by the principles of technology neutrality and regional harmonization within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and ITU Region 1.

Key Frequency Allocations and Applications

While primarily focused on fixed links and backhaul infrastructure, the plan details several bands relevant to manufacturers of high-capacity data transmission and radio networking equipment:

1.4 GHz Band (1350–1375 MHz / 1492–1517 MHz): Best suited for low- and medium-capacity systems operating over long distances.

5 GHz Band (4400–5000 MHz): This band is specifically reserved for government use according to the National Frequency Allocation Plan 2025.

18 GHz, 23 GHz, and 26 GHz Bands: Designated as key bands for 4G and 5G mobile backhaul. The 26 GHz band (24.5–26.5 GHz) is specifically highlighted for 5G small cell backhaul in high-density areas.

28 GHz Band (27.5–29.5 GHz): Identified as ideal for urban 5G rollout, though sensitive to rain fade over long distances.

70/80 GHz (E-Band) and 94 GHz: Allocated for high-capacity, multi-Gbps fiber alternatives and high-density fixed services.

Technical Restrictions and Channelling

The plan introduces standardized channelling arrangements to ensure spectrum efficiency and minimize interference. Manufacturers should note the following technical parameters:

Bandwidth Options: Channel spacing varies significantly by band, ranging from narrow 2 MHz and 7 MHz channels in lower bands to wide 224 MHz, 250 MHz, and 500 MHz channels in the millimeter-wave bands (32 GHz to 80 GHz).

Duplex Spacing: Specific transmitter-receiver duplex spacings are defined for each band (e.g., 1010 MHz for the 18 GHz band and 10 GHz for the 70/80 GHz band) to support Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) operations.

Power and Emission: All equipment must comply with the technical parameters derived from relevant ITU-R Recommendations (e.g., ITU-R F.385-10 for the 7 GHz band and ITU-R F.748-4 for the 26/28 GHz bands).

Coordination and Compliance Requirements

The Commission utilizes a per-link assignment regime, where each individual link is considered separately rather than through nationwide spectrum assignments. However, extensive users may apply for exclusive use based on a "sterilized area" approach. New frequency assignments must strictly comply with the channelling arrangements specified in the 2026 Plan. For devices currently operating on non-conforming assignments, migration to the new plan is mandatory and will be implemented progressively in coordination with ESCCOM to manage interference and spectrum efficiency. Prior coordination and approval by the Commission are required for all assignments.