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The National Communication Authority (NCA) provides comprehensive regulatory, licensing, and policy oversight across critical areas of the telecommunications sector. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the sector operates efficiently, remains competitive, and meets the needs of both consumers and service providers. The NCA also contributes to the broader socio-economic development of South Sudan by fostering a stable and conducive environment for growth and innovation in the industry.

Telecommunication Service

Licensing and Concessions

  • Telecommunications Service Providers: The NCA issues licenses and concessions for the operation of telecommunications services in South Sudan. This includes:

    • Mobile network operators (e.g., GSM, 3G, 4G, and emerging 5G services)

    • Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

    • Satellite operators

    • Fixed-line telephony and broadband operators

    • Broadcasting services (radio, television, IPTV)

  • Spectrum Licensing: The NCA manages the allocation of radio frequency spectrum for telecommunications purposes, including mobile networks, broadcasting, and satellite communication services.

Licensing and Concessions

  • Telecommunications Service Providers: The NCA issues licenses and concessions for the operation of telecommunications services in South Sudan. This includes:

    • Mobile network operators (e.g., GSM, 3G, 4G, and emerging 5G services)

    • Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

    • Satellite operators

    • Fixed-line telephony and broadband operators

    • Broadcasting services (radio, television, IPTV)

  • Spectrum Licensing: The NCA manages the allocation of radio frequency spectrum for telecommunications purposes, including mobile networks, broadcasting, and satellite communication services.

Licensing and Concessions

  • Telecommunications Service Providers: The NCA issues licenses and concessions for the operation of telecommunications services in South Sudan. This includes:

    • Mobile network operators (e.g., GSM, 3G, 4G, and emerging 5G services)

    • Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

    • Satellite operators

    • Fixed-line telephony and broadband operators

    • Broadcasting services (radio, television, IPTV)

  • Spectrum Licensing: The NCA manages the allocation of radio frequency spectrum for telecommunications purposes, including mobile networks, broadcasting, and satellite communication services.

Licensing and Concessions

  • Telecommunications Service Providers: The NCA issues licenses and concessions for the operation of telecommunications services in South Sudan. This includes:

    • Mobile network operators (e.g., GSM, 3G, 4G, and emerging 5G services)

    • Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

    • Satellite operators

    • Fixed-line telephony and broadband operators

    • Broadcasting services (radio, television, IPTV)

  • Spectrum Licensing: The NCA manages the allocation of radio frequency spectrum for telecommunications purposes, including mobile networks, broadcasting, and satellite communication services.

Licensing and Concessions

  • Telecommunications Service Providers: The NCA issues licenses and concessions for the operation of telecommunications services in South Sudan. This includes:

    • Mobile network operators (e.g., GSM, 3G, 4G, and emerging 5G services)

    • Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

    • Satellite operators

    • Fixed-line telephony and broadband operators

    • Broadcasting services (radio, television, IPTV)

  • Spectrum Licensing: The NCA manages the allocation of radio frequency spectrum for telecommunications purposes, including mobile networks, broadcasting, and satellite communication services.

Licensing and Concessions

  • Telecommunications Service Providers: The NCA issues licenses and concessions for the operation of telecommunications services in South Sudan. This includes:

    • Mobile network operators (e.g., GSM, 3G, 4G, and emerging 5G services)

    • Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

    • Satellite operators

    • Fixed-line telephony and broadband operators

    • Broadcasting services (radio, television, IPTV)

  • Spectrum Licensing: The NCA manages the allocation of radio frequency spectrum for telecommunications purposes, including mobile networks, broadcasting, and satellite communication services.

Licensing and Concessions

  • Telecommunications Service Providers: The NCA issues licenses and concessions for the operation of telecommunications services in South Sudan. This includes:

    • Mobile network operators (e.g., GSM, 3G, 4G, and emerging 5G services)

    • Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

    • Satellite operators

    • Fixed-line telephony and broadband operators

    • Broadcasting services (radio, television, IPTV)

  • Spectrum Licensing: The NCA manages the allocation of radio frequency spectrum for telecommunications purposes, including mobile networks, broadcasting, and satellite communication services.

Licensing and Concessions

  • Telecommunications Service Providers: The NCA issues licenses and concessions for the operation of telecommunications services in South Sudan. This includes:

    • Mobile network operators (e.g., GSM, 3G, 4G, and emerging 5G services)

    • Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

    • Satellite operators

    • Fixed-line telephony and broadband operators

    • Broadcasting services (radio, television, IPTV)

  • Spectrum Licensing: The NCA manages the allocation of radio frequency spectrum for telecommunications purposes, including mobile networks, broadcasting, and satellite communication services.

Licensing and Concessions

  • Telecommunications Service Providers: The NCA issues licenses and concessions for the operation of telecommunications services in South Sudan. This includes:

    • Mobile network operators (e.g., GSM, 3G, 4G, and emerging 5G services)

    • Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

    • Satellite operators

    • Fixed-line telephony and broadband operators

    • Broadcasting services (radio, television, IPTV)

  • Spectrum Licensing: The NCA manages the allocation of radio frequency spectrum for telecommunications purposes, including mobile networks, broadcasting, and satellite communication services.

Licensing and Concessions

  • Telecommunications Service Providers: The NCA issues licenses and concessions for the operation of telecommunications services in South Sudan. This includes:

    • Mobile network operators (e.g., GSM, 3G, 4G, and emerging 5G services)

    • Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

    • Satellite operators

    • Fixed-line telephony and broadband operators

    • Broadcasting services (radio, television, IPTV)

  • Spectrum Licensing: The NCA manages the allocation of radio frequency spectrum for telecommunications purposes, including mobile networks, broadcasting, and satellite communication services.

Licensing and Concessions

  • Telecommunications Service Providers: The NCA issues licenses and concessions for the operation of telecommunications services in South Sudan. This includes:

    • Mobile network operators (e.g., GSM, 3G, 4G, and emerging 5G services)

    • Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

    • Satellite operators

    • Fixed-line telephony and broadband operators

    • Broadcasting services (radio, television, IPTV)

  • Spectrum Licensing: The NCA manages the allocation of radio frequency spectrum for telecommunications purposes, including mobile networks, broadcasting, and satellite communication services.

Licensing and Concessions

  • Telecommunications Service Providers: The NCA issues licenses and concessions for the operation of telecommunications services in South Sudan. This includes:

    • Mobile network operators (e.g., GSM, 3G, 4G, and emerging 5G services)

    • Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

    • Satellite operators

    • Fixed-line telephony and broadband operators

    • Broadcasting services (radio, television, IPTV)

  • Spectrum Licensing: The NCA manages the allocation of radio frequency spectrum for telecommunications purposes, including mobile networks, broadcasting, and satellite communication services.

Licensing and Concessions

  • Telecommunications Service Providers: The NCA issues licenses and concessions for the operation of telecommunications services in South Sudan. This includes:

    • Mobile network operators (e.g., GSM, 3G, 4G, and emerging 5G services)

    • Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

    • Satellite operators

    • Fixed-line telephony and broadband operators

    • Broadcasting services (radio, television, IPTV)

  • Spectrum Licensing: The NCA manages the allocation of radio frequency spectrum for telecommunications purposes, including mobile networks, broadcasting, and satellite communication services.

Policies and Regulations

Forms and Applications
 

Telecommunication Services Regulated by NCA

These services are provided by various licensed operators under the oversight and regulation of the National Communication Authority to ensure fair competition, quality standards, and broad access across the country. They include but no limited to:-

​NCA regulates mobile voice and data services, including mobile phone calls, SMS, and internet access, ensuring fair competition, quality standards, and consumer protection across mobile operators.

1

Mobile Telecommunications Services

The NCA manages the provision of internet services, including broadband access (both fixed and mobile), to ensure wide accessibility, affordable pricing, and reliable service across urban and rural areas.

2

Internet Services

The NCA regulates the operation of television and radio broadcasters, both terrestrial and satellite, ensuring content standards, licensing, and proper spectrum allocation for broadcasting frequencies.

3

Broadcasting Services

NCA oversees satellite-based telecommunication services, such as satellite internet and satellite telephony, promoting global connectivity and bridging gaps in remote and underserved areas.

4

Satellite Communication  Services

​NCA licenses and regulates landline voice services and fixed broadband internet offerings, ensuring the development and maintenance of robust infrastructure for fixed telephony and internet services.

5

Fixed-Line Telecommunication Services

NCA monitors the provision of corporate data services, including Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), cloud computing, and data transmission, which are critical for business operations and national development.

6

Data Communication Services

​The NCA regulates mobile money services and other value-added offerings like mobile applications, entertainment, and content services, ensuring security, transparency, and consumer protection.

7

Mobile Financial and Value-Added Services

​The NCA is responsible for managing and allocating radio frequency spectrum and bandwidth, essential for telecommunication services, ensuring optimal use of these limited resources and preventing interference.

8

Spectrum and Bandwidth Management

Application Process

The telecommunication procedures in South Sudan, regulated by the National Communication Authority (NCA), outline the steps and processes for obtaining licenses, approvals, and compliance with legal requirements for telecommunications services. Below is an overview of the common telecommunication procedures under the NCA’s regulation:

  • Procedure:

    • Entities seeking to provide telecommunication services must submit a formal application to the NCA.

    • The application should include the type of service they wish to offer (e.g., mobile, internet, broadcasting), business plan, technical capabilities, and financial information.

    • The NCA reviews the application to assess the applicant's compliance with regulatory requirements.

    Key Documents Required:

    • Company registration documents.

    • Proof of financial stability.

    • Technical and operational plans.

    • Compliance with South Sudan’s laws and regulations.

  • Procedure:

    • Once the application is reviewed, the NCA may issue one of the following licenses:

      • Concessions (for long-term operation or spectrum usage).

      • Authorizations (for operating specific services).

      • Registrations (for smaller, non-licensed service providers).

    • The NCA may impose specific conditions based on the type of license (e.g., frequency usage, service obligations, coverage area).

    Licenses Typically Include:

    • Service scope and area.

    • Duration of the license.

    • Terms and conditions on pricing, quality of service, and reporting requirements.

  • Procedure:

    • Companies wishing to use radio frequencies (e.g., for mobile, satellite, or broadcasting services) must apply for spectrum allocation from the NCA.

    • The NCA conducts a frequency audit to ensure spectrum availability and may assign frequencies based on national priorities and technical compatibility.

    • The NCA will issue a spectrum license detailing the frequencies allocated, terms of use, and compliance requirements.

    Steps Involved:

    • Submit a request specifying the required frequency bands.

    • NCA assesses the technical feasibility and availability of spectrum.

    • Issue a spectrum license with regulatory conditions.

  • Procedure:

    • Service providers must obtain approval from the NCA to deploy telecommunications infrastructure, such as mobile towers, data centers, and network equipment.

    • NCA ensures that the infrastructure meets safety standards, environmental regulations, and non-interference with other network services.

    • The NCA works in coordination with local authorities and other stakeholders for site approval.

    Requirements:

    • Detailed infrastructure deployment plan.

    • Environmental and safety compliance reports.

    • Local government or municipality approval (if required).

  • Procedure:

    • All licensed operators must adhere to consumer protection guidelines established by the NCA, including transparency in pricing, quality of service, dispute resolution mechanisms, and data protection.

    • The NCA conducts regular monitoring and audits of service providers to ensure compliance with set standards and regulations.

    • Operators must submit regular reports to the NCA on service performance and consumer complaints.

    Key Areas of Compliance:

    • Tariff transparency and notification.

    • Consumer rights and dispute resolution procedures.

    • Quality of service (e.g., coverage, call drops, internet speed)

  • Procedure:

    • Licenses issued by the NCA are typically valid for a fixed period (e.g., 5-10 years).

    • Operators must apply for license renewal prior to expiration, providing updated business and technical plans.

    • Changes in business operations or technical parameters (e.g., expansion of service areas or network upgrades) require amendment of the license.

    • The NCA will review the renewal or amendment application, ensuring ongoing compliance with regulatory requirements.

  • Procedure:

    • Telecommunications equipment, such as routers, mobile handsets, satellite dishes, and network hardware, must be registered with the NCA before being imported or used commercially in South Sudan.

    • The NCA ensures that the equipment meets the required technical standards and is compatible with local telecommunications infrastructure.

    Requirements:

    • Submit technical specifications of the equipment.

    • Compliance with South Sudan’s technical standards and safety regulations.

  • Procedure:

    • The NCA serves as an intermediary for resolving disputes between consumers and service providers.

    • Consumers can file complaints with the NCA regarding service issues such as billing disputes, service outages, or poor quality of service.

    • The NCA may investigate complaints and mediate between parties to reach a resolution.

    Complaint Process:

    • Submit a formal complaint to the NCA (via email, website, or in person).

    • The NCA investigates the issue and may take enforcement action if needed.

    • Resolution may involve penalties, corrective measures, or refunds for consumers.

  • Procedure:

    • The NCA has the authority to impose penalties or sanctions on operators that fail to comply with regulatory requirements, including issues related to service quality, spectrum misuse, or failure to meet financial obligations.

    • Penalties may include fines, suspension of services, or revocation of licenses.

    Common Penalties:

    • Financial fines.

    • Suspension or termination of licenses.

    • Temporary or permanent bans on certain operations or services.

  • Procedure:

    • The NCA regularly conducts audits and inspections of licensed telecommunications companies to ensure compliance with licensing conditions and regulatory standards.

    • Inspections may include network performance checks, financial audits, and reviews of customer service practices.

    Audit Process:

    • Scheduled and unscheduled inspections of operations.

    • Operators are required to submit reports and data to assist in audits.

    • NCA may impose corrective actions if non-compliance is found.

These procedures ensure that the telecommunication sector in South Sudan operates within a structured and regulated framework, promoting competition, service quality, and consumer protection, while fostering growth in the industry.

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