GSMA urges African states to lower spectrum fees to boost mobile investment

The GSMA, representing the worldwide telecoms sector, has urged African policymakers to cut the price of radio-frequency spectrum, warning that current levels are stifling investment in advanced mobile infrastructure. Its research notes that spectrum fees as a share of annual revenue are markedly higher for operators in Africa than elsewhere, with Botswana, Eswatini, Mozambique and Zambia singled out as costly markets.

The body projects that easing these charges could generate more than $120 billion for the African economy by 2035, expand coverage of 4G and 5G networks and boost overall productivity. Over the coming decade, licences worth upwards of $10 billion will require renewal, creating a clash between state revenue goals and the need for affordable connectivity. The report highlights the tension between using spectrum auctions as a fiscal tool and treating spectrum as a catalyst for economic development.