Type Approval and Equipment Standards
About NCA Type Approval and Equipment Standards
The National Communications Authority (NCA) regulates and approves communications equipment used within South Sudan. To ensure the safety, compatibility, and quality of telecommunications, radio communications, and broadcasting equipment, the NCA enforces the National Communications Standards, Specifications, and Type Approval Regulations, 2016. Below is a summary of the type of approval process and related requirements.
Type Approval Requirements
All communications equipment, including terminals, network equipment, wireless devices, and radio communications apparatus, must be submitted for type approval or type acceptance by the NCA before being connected to any public communications network in South Sudan. This ensures that the equipment meets national standards and is compatible with existing networks.
Application for Type Approval
Entities seeking type approval must submit an application using the prescribed forms provided by the NCA. The application should include:
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Samples of the equipment for testing.
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Copies of test results and type approval certificates from recognized foreign regulatory authorities (if applicable).
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Detailed technical specifications and other relevant information.
The NCA will evaluate the application and communicate its decision within 60 days. If no communication is received within this period, the application is considered approved.
Provisional and Final Type Approval
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Provisional Type Approval: This temporary approval may be granted for a period not exceeding six months. It allows limited use of the equipment until final approval is obtained.
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Final Type Approval: Applications for final approval must be submitted before the expiry of the provisional approval. Final approval is granted if the equipment meets all necessary standards, is in the public interest, and does not pose any risks to human health, the environment, or communications networks.
Type Approval Certificates and Labels
Once approved, the NCA issues a type approval certificate for the specific model of equipment. Suppliers, importers, and distributors must ensure that all equipment sold or used is labelled with a type approval label issued by the NCA, indicating:
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The NCA’s logo.
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The type of equipment.
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Alphanumeric identification of the equipment.
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Contributing to the development of related communications markets
Compliance and Revocation
The NCA reserves the right to revoke type approval if the equipment fails to meet the approved standards, causes harmful interference, or poses a risk to health or the environment. Complaints about approved equipment can be submitted to the NCA, and the Authority may conduct investigations or require further clarifications from the applicant.
Importation and Sale of Equipment
Only licensed suppliers, importers, or distributors may supply, import, or distribute communications equipment in South Sudan. Equipment must be type-approved, and all relevant licenses must be obtained from the NCA. The sale of electronic communication equipment is restricted to authorized shops or distribution centers.
Offences and Penalties
Engaging in the importation, sale, or use of unapproved communications equipment is a serious offense. Violators may be subject to fines up to USD 100,000 or imprisonment for up to one year, or both.