The Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) has taken decisive action by suspending four radio stations in the Copperbelt Province due to significant interference with aircraft communication and navigation systems. This move underscores ZICTA’s dedication to safeguarding national airspace and ensuring public safety.
Following a thorough investigation, ZICTA, in collaboration with the Zambia Civil Aviation Authority (ZCAA), determined that numerous broadcasters were transmitting signals that exceeded their assigned FM frequencies. These emissions included out-of-band signals, harmonics, and intermodulation products, all of which disrupted essential radio navigation systems.
Authorities indicated that such interference poses a grave risk to aviation safety, as aircraft depend on clear and uninterrupted communication with air traffic control for safe operation. Any disruption to these channels could potentially jeopardise lives and compromise the integrity of air travel.
ZICTA has stipulated that the affected stations may resume operations only upon full compliance with regulatory standards. The Authority highlighted that their emissions violated Section 79 of the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) Act No. 15 of 2009, and failing to comply with licensing conditions is considered an offence.
In its notification, ZICTA reminded all licensees of the necessity to operate strictly within their assigned frequencies, adhere to approved bandwidth limits, and avoid any harmful interference, particularly regarding safety-of-life services. Furthermore, all equipment must meet the required technical standards.
ZICTA has mandated the immediate cessation of transmissions from the identified broadcasters until all technical issues are resolved and verified through a regulatory inspection. The Authority has also issued a stern warning to all ICT sector operators that ongoing non-compliance with licensing regulations—whether technical, operational, or administrative—will result in enforcement action.
Reaffirming its commitment to national airspace protection and public safety, ZICTA has called upon all operators to work collaboratively during the ongoing monitoring and corrective efforts.
