Tunisia calls for tenders to provide 5G
The Tunisian Ministry of Communication Technologies has invited tenders to grant operating licenses for 5G in the North African country. The call for tenders is a significant step in the country's efforts to enhance its digital infrastructure and extend broadband coverage as part of its digital development strategy.
Interested telecom operators are required to submit their applications for deploying commercial 5G technology in Tunisia between July 3, 2024, and September 2, 2024. This initiative follows the recent approval of Tunisia's 5G roadmap launch, which outlines the allocation of spectrum bands for telecom operators.
Key Details of the 5G Rollout in Tunisia
As per the roadmap, Tunisian telecom operators will be allocated spectrum in the 700MHz and 3.5GHz bands for 5G deployment. Operators can also request additional spectrum blocks, with further frequency bands for 5G expected to be announced in subsequent deployment phases. The licenses awarded to operators will be valid for a period of 15 years.
The deployment of 5G in Tunisia is in line with the country's national strategy for digital infrastructure development and aims to expand high-speed broadband coverage nationwide. Additionally, the government aims to accelerate administrative digitization, enhance cybersecurity measures, ensure digital sovereignty, and create a secure digital environment to support digitalization projects.
5G Developments in African Countries
Tunisia's 5G plans coincide with the launch and rollout of 5G technology in several African countries. Telecom operators across the continent are actively deploying 5G networks to meet the growing demand for advanced connectivity services.
In a similar vein, Somali telecommunications operator Hormuud Telecom recently launched its 5G network in key locations in East Africa. This launch follows the deployment of 5G services by other operators in various African nations, indicating a continent-wide trend towards embracing 5G technology.
Furthermore, Telecom Egypt secured the first 5G license in Egypt from the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA), highlighting the progress of 5G adoption in the region. Other African countries, such as Namibia, Uganda, and Zambia, have also made significant strides in awarding 5G licenses and testing 5G services with prominent telecom operators.
Orange, a leading telecom provider in Africa, has announced its plans to launch 5G services across its operations in the continent by the end of 2024, further underscoring the rapid advancements in 5G technology across Africa.
These developments signify the continent's commitment to embracing advanced telecommunications technologies to drive digital transformation and enhance connectivity for businesses and consumers.