According to industry reports, Sentech, South Africa’s state-owned signal distributor, plans to deploy mission-critical broadband and narrowband network on the 450MHz spectrum.
It said the initiative aligns with its vision to increase national connectivity and support public sector operations.
“With the 450MHz spectrum, Sentech is poised to bridge the digital divide and ensure that even the most remote communities have access to reliable communication networks,” Sentech’s acting CEO, Tebogo Leshope, said.
“Our expertise and infrastructure uniquely position us to drive this transformation and support critical national services.”
It said that the 450MHz spectrum has several advantages, including extended coverage requiring fewer base stations. This makes it ideal for rural areas.
Sentech points out that the frequency band allows for superior signal penetration and strong indoor and underground connectivity.
It is also highly reliable and essential for emergency services and public safety communications.
The state-owned signal distributor will hold a round table discussion on Monday, February 24, to share insights into its 450MHz strategy and infrastructure capabilities.
“Sentech remains committed to collaborating with industry leaders and regulators to develop an ecosystem that fosters innovation and connectivity,” Leshope added.
“We believe that by working together, we can create a future where secure and reliable communication is accessible to all.”
Sentech CFO Rudzani Rasikhinya previously said the state-owned signal distributor intended to diversify its revenue streams in October last year in a meeting with the Parliamentary Committee on Economic Development and Trade.
Rasikhinya said that 94% of Sentech’s revenue is generated from its media broadcasting business, as it was established to be a signal distributor.
Its other revenue streams include broadband (1%) and telecommunications towers (5%).
However, by diversifying these revenue streams, Sentech hopes to decrease its reliance on media to 45%, increase broadband revenue to 30%, towers to 8%, and add data centres and other offerings by 2030.
