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• Draft Universal Access and Service Fund (UASF)  Strategic Plan 2019-2024

Deadline for submission of comments/input is Friday 18th January 2019, 5pm.

Welcome Remarks by Mr Murphy Setshwane, Director Licensing and Postal Regulation at Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) on the occasion of the SADC ICT Observatory and Broadband Indicators Workshop held from 10-14 December 2014, SADC Secretariat HQ.

Director of Ceremonies 
Representatives of SADC Secretariat and its partners 
Communications Regulators Association of Southern Africa - CRASA 
United Nations Economic Commission for Africa – UNECA 
International Telecommunication Union – ITU 
Southern Africa Telecommunications Association – SATA 
Representatives of SADC Member States 
Distinguished delegates 
Ladies and Gentlemen 

I feel privileged and greatly honoured to welcome you all to Botswana for the SADC ICT Observatory and Broadband Indicators Workshop. During the past few weeks Botswana has experienced extremely high temperature and dry weather despite the fact that we are officially in the rainy season.  The heat has been unbearable with temperatures reaching highs of 40 degrees celsius in some parts of the country.

You are special as your arrival in Botswana seems to be turning around this unpleasant situation with a few showers that we received over the weekend.  In keeping with our culture, we welcome you with open arms in the full belief that you will bring us even more rain.   Your visit also coincides with the festive season when everyone is in a celebratory mood.  I therefore trust that you will be met with happy Batswana faces as you move around.

Director of Ceremonies, that ICTs are at the core of our modern lives is almost a cliché.  However, the examples of the likes of Singapore, Republic of Korea, Rwanda and other countries that are leading in terms of ICT deployment and usage, are living proof that ICTs give economies more than a competitive advantage.  They actually define quality of life in the modern-day world.

It is in this light that I take my hat off to SADC ICT Ministers for their vision in calling for the SADC ICT Observatory and Broadband Indicators initiative.  It is popularly held that what cannot be measured cannot be managed and the failure to measure is the biggest undoing for most of us in the developing world.  All of us developing nations, particularly in Africa, are making concerted efforts aimed at embracing the use of ICTs.  However, many of us have difficulties in quantifying the resources that we put in and relating them to the benefits derived because of limited statistical records.  This makes it difficult to market ourselves as individual countries and even as a collective.  As a result, we are likely to lose out on the benefits of the digitalisation as we have lost out on the previous revolutions. I am glad that initiatives such as this one will assist us to break this vicious cycle and in the fullness of time, we shall reap the full benefits of ICTs and globalisation.

I was encouraged to see that the deliverables of this initiative include building capacity of ICT Indices; establishing the status of data collection and validation in Member States; becoming familiar with calculating the IDI and ITU Price Basket among many others.  This workshop therefore lends itself as the prescription that will address our common problem.  I am humbled that as Botswana, we accepted the responsibility to host this important workshop in continuance of our commitment towards reginal advancement.  

I once again welcome you and trust that you will find the humble arrangements that we put together for this workshop adequate to enable you to do justice to the subject matter before you.  I therefore invite you to feel at home.  After all, as the seat of SADC, Botswana is your home away from home.

I thank you for your attention.  Let there be rain or as we say in vernacular, PULA!!

We are Closing Offices for the Festive Season

Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) will close offices for the festive season on the 21^st December 2018, from 1200hrs noon and re-open for business on the 08^th January 2019.

BOCRA advises all licensees who wish to renew their licences to do so on or before close of business on the 21^st December 2018. There will be no renewals done during the festive break.

BOCRA takes this time to wish Batswana and its licensees safe holidays.

For more information or clarity contact:

Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority 
Plot 50671 Independence Avenue 
Private Bag 00495 
Gaborone 

Tel: +267 368 5500 
Fax: +267 395 7976

The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) has opened a call for submissions of WSIS related projects to the contest for WSIS Prizes 2019. The contest is open to entities representing Governments, Private Sector, International and Regional Institutions, Civil Society and Academia. The WSIS 2019 contest was developed to create an effective mechanism to evaluate and recognize individuals ,governments, civil society, local, regional and international agencies, research institutions and privatesector companies for outstanding success in implementing development oriented strategies that leverage the power of Information and Communications Technologies (ICT’s) as an enabler of the development.

The WSIS 2019 contest serves to identify and showcase the success stories across the WSIS Action Lines defined in the Geneva Plan of Action and Sustainable Development Goals. For more information about WSIS visit:  https://www.itu.int/net4/wsis/stocktaking/prizes/2019/

To  submit projects, stakeholders are requested to complete the submission form for WSIS Prizes 2019 online at the following link: https://www.itu.int/net4/wsis/stocktaking/prizes/2019/#sform

The period for submission is from 02 July 2018 to 30 November 2018. All entities submitting their projects for the WSIS Prizes 2019 are also required to submit via email, a summary of the project submission to BOCRA for filing purposes.

The contest is divided into the following phases:
1. Phase I: 2 July 2018 – 30 November 2018 : Submission phase ( Deadline for last submission: 00:00)
2. Phase II: 3 December 2018 – 21 December 2018: Nomination phase: Review of submitted projects by Expert Group that will result in list of nominated projects.
3. Phase III: 21 December 2018 – 10 February 2019: (Deadline for casting last vote: 00:00); Public online Voting (identification of five projects per category with the highest number of votes)
4. Phase IV: 11 February 2019 – 15 February 2019: (Selection of winning projects by the ITU Expert Group) 5. Phase V: 8 April-12 April 2019: Announcement of winners to the public during WSIS Prize 2019 Ceremony

For further information or any enquiries, please contact:
Olerato Tiego
Tel: +267 3685571
Email: Tiego@bocra.org.bw

Edwin Kooletile
Tel: +267 3685412
Email: kooletile@bocra.org.bw

The Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA or the Authority) is a statutory body established under the Communications Regulatory Authority Act [CRA Act No. 19 of 2012] with the responsibility for the regulation of the communications sector in Botswana, comprising telecommunications, Internet and Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs), radio communications, commercial broadcasting, postal services and related matters.

In 2009, the then National Broadcasting Board adopted a Code of Conduct for broadcasters during the elections. In 2014 BOCRA reviewed this document.  BOCRA intends to review this document to take into account the latest developments in preparation to 2019 Elections. The Code will be enforced during the 2019 elections and will be binding to the licensed broadcasters. Therefore, BOCRA invites stakeholders to make input to the Draft Code of Conduct for consideration.  

The deadline for submissions is on the 30th November 2018 at 17:00hrs.

BOCRA will consolidate all input from the workshop and written submissions to finalise the Code.

The Draft Code of Conduct During Elections is available from the BOCRA website: www.bocra.org.bw or from BOCRA Head Office, Plot 50671, Independence Avenue.

Your Comments may be sent to:

The Chief Executive 
Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority 
Plot No 50671, Independence Avenue 
Private Bag 00495 
Gaborone 

Attention:
Masego M. Jeremiah jeremiah@bocra.org.bw  
Tel: 395 7755/368 5500

Invitation to National Broadcasting Conference

The Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) will host a National Broadcasting Conference from the 16 -18 October 2018, at Travel Lodge, Gaborone under the theme:

“The Future of Broadcasting in the Era of Emerging Technologies”

This conference forms part of the consultative process intended to offer industry stakeholders the opportunity to reflect and contribute on some of the key issues that impact the Broadcasting industry.

The Conference will interrogate digital technological advances that are greatly affecting the traditional broadcasting and how these can be leveraged to promote a thriving broadcasting sector. Further, the conference will;

• Review the progress that Botswana has made in Broadcasting technology advancement;
• Consult with the public on the current regulatory instruments proposed by BOCRA; and
• Educate attendants on the mandate of BOCRA.

For registration, please contact the below before the 12 October 2018.

Ms. Keotshepile Ntau 
Email : ntau@bocra.org.bw 
Tel: 368 5500 / 368 5580 
Or 
Mr. Thato Sebeso 
Email: sebeso@bocra.org.bw 
Tel: 368 5500 / 368 5598

Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) has noted with concern recent Facebook reports by Duma FM presenter Mr Oageng Batenegi also known as Spanito alleging that BOCRA was the source of statistics to the effect that his radio interview programme with Mr Sydney Pilane on Thursday was listened to by 1 Million people. In efforts to exonerate himself from false reporting, Mr Batenegi issued another statement claiming that the reports they received were not officially sanctioned by BOCRA. It must be stated that BOCRA has never issued any report, official or otherwise, to Mr Batenegi or any broadcaster on audience ratings.

BOCRA wishes to emphatically state that the Facebook report is false. BOCRA has never undertaken audience measurements to determine the listenership of the radio programme in question.

BOCRA has communicated its disapproval of fraudulent use of its name to Duma FM about the misinformation and has ordered that the information be withdrawn, and appropriate public apology tendered.

Vacancy:  Members of the Board of Trustees (Three (3) Positions)

Term of Ofice: 3 YEARS

Reference: UASF-VAC-01-2018

The Universal Access and Service Fund (UASF or the Fund) is a development oriented entity that was established in April 2014 to promote national access to essential communication services (Telecommunications, Internet, Broadcasting and Postal). In guarding against possible discrimination in terms of geographical location and income status of individuals and communities, price and quality of communication services, the UASF promotes universal access through providing financial assistance (subsidies or grants) to different entities to enable delivery of services to areas that may be deemed commercially unviable. The Fund is situated at the Head Office of its Secretariat, Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA), Plot 50671, Independence Avenue, Gaborone.

The UASF invites applications from citizens of Botswana with expertise in the following sectors:

• Postal Sector
• ICT Sector
• Broadcasting Sector; and 
• a Consumer Representative

Applicants must be independent and not be employed by or have ownership in entities in the aforesaid sectors.

Main Duties of the Board

• Through the Secretariat, develop the UASF Strategic Plan in accordance with government policies and existing regulatory frameworks.
• Consideration of all UASF strategy and financial matters for approval, including budgets, consultancies, tenders, annual fund audits among other relevant issues.
• Holds quarterly and extra-ordinary meetings as may be required in line with its duties         

Competencies, Skills & Knowledge

• Extensive knowledge and experience in the Communications Sector
• Strategic Orientation
• Business Acumen
• Stakeholder Management
• Decision making
• Influence/Impact
• Building and maintaining strategic relationships
• Leadership Skills

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS: Degree qualification is a minimum requirement

EXPERIENCE: Relevant Experience in the Communications Sector, in particular, Postal, ICT, and Broadcasting services.

APPLICATIONS: Only candidates that meet the stipulated requirements should apply and enclose the following;

Motivational letter on why they believe they are suitable candidates for the role and attach a copy of curriculum vitae stating the reference number.

All applications should be addressed to;

The Board Secretary 
Universal Access and Service Fund 
Private Bag 00495, Gaborone 
Plot 50671, Independence Avenue, Gaborone (BOCRA Head Office) 
Email: molwane@bocra.org.bw

All electronic applications must state the reference as the subject of the mail.

APPLICATION CLOSING DATE & TIME: 20 July 2018, 1700HRS.

The UASF will respond to successful candidates only.

BOCRA does Deliver on a Connected and Informed Society

BOCRA has noted in the Sunday Standard of 3-5 June 2018, an article apparently written by a Concerned Citizen titled Is BOCRA really delivering on a connected and informed society?

The article is an opinion piece that does not call for a response. However, it presents the opportunity for BOCRA to shed light on some of the issues raised, in the interest of consumer education.

The article raises a rhetorical question whether BOCRA is delivering on a connected and informed society. The state of communications in Botswana is open to public assessment and varied conclusions. However, ICT connectivity is measured locally, regionally and internationally on the basis of Access, Usage and ICT Skills. As at March 2016, mobile phone access stood at 3.5 million subscribers, meaning that there were 3.5 million active mobile simcards in use in Botswana. There were also 1.4 Million mobile phone internet users in Botswana. These statistics places Botswana at position five in Sub Saharan Africa behind Mauritius, Seychelles, South Africa and Cape Verde. Globally Botswana ranks position 105 out of 176 countries in the world with Cape Verde at 93, South Africa 92, Seychelles 90 and Mauritius 72. Only four other Arab states of Algeria, Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia rank above Botswana at positions 99, 100, 102 and 103 respectively. However, for purposes of global comparisons the North African countries are grouped with Middle East countries because of commonalities of their economic environments. Mobile penetration has placed Botswana as one of the major users of mobile broadband internet as evidenced by the country raking among the highest in Africa in terms of usage of social media particularly Facebook.

The article also refers to Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) and incorrectly concludes that to date no single transmitter has been established. The correct information is that in terms of transmission network, Botswana has concluded countrywide transition to DTT. The national Broadcaster, Btv, has launched its DTT service and in places like Ghanzi the analogue transmission has been switched off. In terms of the private broadcasters, BOCRA has invited applications for licensing on the digital terrestrial platform. However, no license has been awarded as none of the applications received so far met the licensing requirements. In view thereof, BOCRA continues to explore other avenues including infrastructure sharing to accommodate potential local applicants. The process is ongoing and already some private broadcasters are accommodated on the government network albeit on trial basis. It is important to note that BOCRA, in line with international best practice has indeed created the necessary regulatory environment to attract private investment on digital platform. The challenge is with potential licensees meeting set requirements.

Concerned Citizen also makes reference to the BOCRA Chief Executive having prioritised Connect Botswana. Indeed, the Chief Executive has prioritised connecting Botswana. It is in pursuit of this priority that BOCRA has created a Fund called the Universal Access and Service Fund (UASF), which Fund currently has a project to connect all Primary schools in Mabutsane Region, Ganzi District and Kgalagadi Districts. A total of sixty-eight primary schools are all receiving 5 Mbps internet connectivity, 50 educational tablets per school and other ICTs peripherals including network printers. The Fund is also sponsoring upgrades of all mobile base stations in the same areas to a minimum of 3G capacity. Further, the Fund has a project to enhance connectivity along Trans- Kalahari Highway. The tender for this project is undergoing evaluation. All these initiatives are carried out to facilitate connectivity.

The article questions why BOCRA is interested in tariffs of licensed operators while there are Over The Top (OTTs) services like Netflix and Facebook that are not regulated. It is important for the Concerned Citizen to understand that BOCRA has a legal mandate to regulate tariffs of operators licensed in Botswana for the protection of Botswana consumers. BOCRA regulates Mobile Termination Rates (MTRs) because MTRs are by their nature a monopoly. In other words, for a subscriber to receive a call, only Mascom or Orange or BTCL can receive and terminate that call. Therefore, only those three can determine what to charge for handling the call. Hence, BOCRA intervenes to ensure that the MTRs reflect the cost of terminating the calls.

OTTs are a Value Add service that rides on the networks of traditional carriers. The industry worldwide, including traditional carriers, continue the debate to find an acceptable method of regulating and pricing the OTTs taking into consideration the important role they play in addressing consumer needs that is different from that of traditional carriers. It is also important to understand that traditional telecommunications operators and media as the Concerned Citizen refers to them, control a large share of the market because most of them started off as monopolies and subsequent ones enjoyed periods of regulatory protection when market entry was controlled. Therefore, they have the potential to use their market power to maximise benefits from the market to the detriment of consumers.

Finally, it is worth noting that BOCRA never took any operator to court. In all the cases that have been or are before the courts, BOCRA appears as a respondent.

Aaron Nyelesi 
Deputy Director Corporate Communications 
BOCRA

Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) informs consumers that beginning 1 June 2018, On-Net calls (Calls within network) and Off-Net calls (Calls from one network to the other) are charged the same rate. This means that within the same network and same package the charge for On-Net and Off-Net calls will be the same.

Removal of Off-Net premium should not be understood to mean there is one calling rate applicable across all the three networks or that Pre-paid and Post-paid calls are charged at the same rate.  BTC, Mascom and Orange will continue to maintain different pricing structures in keeping with their business models. However, within the same operator and same package the charge for On-Net and Off-Net will be the same.

The removal of Off- Net premiums follows the implementation of Regulatory Directive No.1 of 2017 issued by BOCRA mandating operators to remove Off-Net premiums over a period of two years.  The first phase was done on 1 June 2017.  The second and final phase was done on 1 June 2018.

Approved maximum prices for the various operators are attached for consumer information.  Consumers are advised to obtain prices for their various packages from respective operators.

For Further Details
Contact Aaron Nyelesi
D/Director Corporate Communications

Approved Maximum Applicable tariffs with effect from 1 June 2018

Botswana Telecommunications Corporation (BTC)

Table 1: Prepaid call tariffs

Table 2: Postpaid Call Tariffs

Customers should note that BTCL tariffs have not been affected since there were no off net premium charges. 

Mascom Wireless (Pty) Ltd

Table 3: Approved Prepaid Voice call tariffs in Pula/minute                                         

Table 4: Approved Postpaid Voice call tariffs in Pula/minute

Orange Botswana (Pty) Ltd

Table 5: Approved Prepaid Voice call tariffs in Pula/minute

Table 6: Approved Postpaid Off-Net Tariffs in Pula/minute

Table 7: Postpaid Plans Not Affected By The Price Change