By Mulengera Reporters
Uganda has commenced its third National Preparatory Committee Meeting ahead of the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27), with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) bringing together key stakeholders to develop the country’s position on critical global spectrum and satellite communication issues.
The meeting brings together experts from across the communications sector, including industry leaders, telecommunications operators, academics and government representatives. Their contributions are expected to help Uganda establish informed and coordinated positions ahead of the international negotiations at WRC-27.
The World Radiocommunication Conference is held every four years under the International Telecommunication Union Radiocommunication Sector (ITU-R). It provides countries with an opportunity to review and update international regulations governing the use of radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits.
Radio-frequency spectrum is a finite and increasingly valuable resource that supports modern communications technologies and services. Mobile telecommunications, satellite communications, broadcasting and other wireless technologies all depend on access to spectrum.
With demand for spectrum continuing to grow, countries are required to prepare thoroughly at national, regional and international levels ahead of each WRC. For Uganda, the preparatory process is intended to ensure that national interests are clearly identified and effectively represented during global discussions.
Speaking at the third National Preparatory Committee Meeting for WRC-27, UCC Head of Spectrum Management George Kasangaki emphasized the importance of stakeholder participation in shaping Uganda’s position.
Kasangaki said the meeting represents a crucial stage in determining the issues Uganda will prioritize and the positions it will advance during the international negotiations.
“This meeting serves as a crucial step in shaping our position, empowering us to defend, fight, and negotiate for our country’s interests,” he said.
He stressed that sustained discussions and persistence will be necessary to secure outcomes that reflect Uganda’s priorities.
“With dedicated discussions and persistence, we strive to ensure that when the next WRC takes place in 2027, Uganda can walk away with a sense of accomplishment and pride,” Kasangaki said.
The preparations come at a time when rapid technological development is increasing pressure on the global radio-frequency spectrum. The expansion of mobile networks, growth in satellite-based communications and emergence of new wireless technologies are creating greater demand for spectrum resources.
Decisions made at WRC-27 could consequently have long-term implications for Uganda’s communications sector, including the availability of spectrum for emerging technologies and the expansion of existing services.
Through the national preparatory process, stakeholders have an opportunity to examine the technical, economic and policy implications of issues expected to be considered at the conference. The discussions also allow industry players, researchers and government representatives to share expertise and develop common positions.
UCC’s coordination of the national process is aimed at ensuring Uganda speaks with a well-informed and coordinated voice during regional and international spectrum discussions.
The process is also expected to support Uganda’s wider digital transformation ambitions by helping create conditions for innovation, improved connectivity and better communication services.
Effective spectrum management is increasingly important as more Ugandans rely on mobile and wireless technologies for communication, business, education and access to digital services. Ensuring sufficient and appropriately managed spectrum will therefore be critical to supporting future network expansion and technological innovation.
The ongoing preparations highlight the importance of making informed decisions today to support the communications needs of tomorrow. As Uganda continues to prepare for WRC-27, stakeholder engagement will remain central to developing a position that protects national interests while contributing to the global management of radio-frequency resources.
The discussions ultimately seek to ensure that Uganda enters the 2027 conference prepared to negotiate effectively and secure outcomes that contribute to sustainable growth, innovation and improved connectivity for Ugandans. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
