Icasa-backed field trials prove dynamic spectrum can unlock affordable broadband across rural South Africa.

TechCentral

South Africa's communications regulator Icasa has successfully completed field trials of dynamic spectrum sharing (DSA) in KwaZulu-Natal, deploying 5G networks in the 3.8-4.2GHz band across both urban-adjacent Ntuzuma and rural Ixopo. The trials delivered download speeds up to 200Mbit/s, coverage exceeding 4km, and strong non-line-of-sight performance — outperforming conventional 5.8GHz Wi-Fi. A CSIR-developed spectrum switch database enables secondary users (like wireless ISPs) to access idle spectrum without interfering with primary licensees such as satellite services. This marks the first direct-to-device dynamic spectrum deployment in South Africa, potentially enabling affordable rural broadband where fibre is unviable and cellular data too expensive. Commercial authorisation is expected within months, with service providers already preparing deployments.

South Africa’s dynamic spectrum breakthrough