The National Institute of Communications of Mozambique (INCM) issued spectrum licenses this Tuesday (23) to Tmcel, Vodacom Mozambique, and Movitel for the implementation of 5G and the expansion of 4G networks, in an initiative the regulator considers a key milestone in the country’s digital transformation.
The information was announced by Helena Fernandes, chair of the INCM board of directors, during the license handover ceremony held on the sidelines of the 5th National Communications Conference. According to her, the allocation of the licenses represents an important step in implementing the national digital transformation strategy and strengthening technological infrastructure expected to support the digital economy in the coming years.
“We chose this moment to proceed with the delivery of spectrum licenses for the implementation of 5G and the expansion of the 4G network to the three mobile operators, symbolizing a historic milestone towards Mozambique’s digital transformation,” she said.
Helena Fernandes explained that the new licenses are tied to specific commitments regarding coverage, service quality, infrastructure expansion, and digital inclusion. “Radio spectrum is a scarce, strategic resource of high value for national development. For this reason, its allocation is linked to specific obligations aimed at ensuring that the benefits of technology translate into real gains for Mozambicans, businesses, and the State,” she said.
Under the commitments made by operators, the country is expected to have 5G services in all provincial capitals by June 2027. “Operators have one year to roll out 5G in all provincial capitals,” she said.
According to the INCM chair, the rollout will also cover major urban centers, industrial zones, economic hubs, and areas with high population density. Expansion is also expected to include strategic tourist areas, including coastal and inland destinations, national parks, reserves, and other sites of economic and environmental interest.
“Industrial, energy, and logistics hubs are also included, ensuring that the new capabilities provided by 5G support the development of productive sectors such as industry, logistics, mining, energy, and services,” she added.
Helena Fernandes further stated that the regulator expects coverage to be gradually extended in a later phase to border areas, rural zones, and localities considered strategic for the country’s economic and territorial integration.
Alongside 5G implementation, the three operators have also committed to expanding 4G coverage to accelerate nationwide broadband access and reduce inequalities between urban and rural areas.
“In this way, we will ensure that technological progress benefits the entire national territory and not just major urban centers,” she said.
According to her, priority will be given to coverage of public institutions, healthcare facilities, and educational establishments. In terms of digital inclusion, the program also foresees the distribution of 700,000 subsidized smartphones to facilitate public access to digital services and new communication technologies.
“The delivery of these licenses represents much more than the allocation of spectrum usage rights. It represents a commitment to Mozambique’s development, digital inclusion, and improved quality of life for Mozambicans,” she concluded.
The 5th National Communications Conference ends this Tuesday (23), after two days of debates promoted by the Communications Regulatory Authority of Mozambique (INCM). The event brings together policymakers, regulators, telecom operators, academics, investors, cooperation partners, and national and international experts to discuss key challenges and opportunities in the country’s digital transformation. Topics under discussion include connectivity expansion, digital infrastructure development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital inclusion, emergency communications, 5G, satellite services, and future generations of telecommunications.
Text: Felisberto Ruco
