BACKGROUND

The increase in radio communication devices and services has resulted in greater demand for access to the radio frequency spectrum. A new spectrum management paradigm is required for some services to balance spectrum utilisation by incumbents and the growing demand from the new services.

Dynamic spectrum access (DSA) is a spectrum sharing concept that allows secondary users to access spectrum in licensed spectrum bands on condition that they do not cause harmful interference to incumbent users. DSA may alleviate spectrum scarcity and increase spectrum utilisation especially in rural underserved areas. The authority proposes to authorise dynamic access of the UHF band 470-694 MHz on a non-protected, non-interference basis by white space devices (WSDs).

In establishing the regulatory requirements for TVWS in Kenya, the Authority sets limits that will offer the protection required to prevent harmful interference to the DTT broadcasting service.

Strathmore University and the Communications Authority of Kenya entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to investigate the viability of radio frequency spectrum sharing in Kenya. The collaborative study invites other researchers and stakeholders to participate in shaping the strategy for DSA implementation in Kenya. CA envisions that TV white spaces will enable enhanced internet access in rural Kenya.

The proposed framework is advised by technical trials, due diligence, research activities and ongoing consultations. The primary focus for the trials was to evaluate spectrum usage in the UHF band based on international best practices and investigate the opportunity for spectrum sharing to enhance Internet access for rural Kenya.

This work was culminated by the development of the Draft Regulatory Framework for TV Whitespaces.

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Summary of the Draft Regulatory Framework for TV White Spaces _ April_25_2021_