Africa's satellite technology is ready to connect under an "open skies" model. However, a tough regulatory environment makes it impossible to implement, for the time being.
"Open skies" is a model of broadcasting or connectivity that allows satellite networks to operate across national boundaries, while being licensed by a central regulator.
According to Hughes Network Systems business development director Sean Victor, regional licensing would enable companies from one country to transmit data to its audience in the next country, without having to apply for an individual country-specific licence.
"The technology to do this is available today, and would work like any other wireless network, with far-reaching implications," he adds.
Broadband networks and broadcasters are using the technology to transmit services across borders. However, they are required to apply for a licence in each country they service.
Long timeframe
Mike van den Bergh, COO of Gateway Communications, says there needs to be a collective will among African regulators to have a model like this implemented. However, he speculates this may only happen in five to 10 years.
"Both in terms of footprint and frequency, satellite does not recognise regional boundaries," he says. "Considering the dependence on satellite in Africa, it [open skies] would bring economic growth and new opportunities to communities in Africa."
He says the African regulatory environment is far from recognising the "open skies" model as feasible. "We deliver services in 40 countries in Africa. The company allows about three months for each licence application. Some come through faster, while others can take as long as a year to obtain."
Victor is more optimistic about the timeframe for "open skies" in Africa, saying the growth of the industry will drive regulators to look at the model in two to three years. "Pressure from businesses to operate without having to encumber themselves with the maintenance of more than one licence will drive the regulators to consider the framework."
Members of the Global VSAT Forum are in discussions with the Independent Communications Authority of SA to express the benefits and feasibility of the "open skies" environment. The forum aims to promote connectivity as an alternative to fixed broadband. "So there is some small movement, but both government and regulators will have to be pressured."
Africa's needs
Victor says using an "open skies" model could have huge implications for the continent. "The model is being used in some parts of Europe and in the US with great success," he adds.
The US is rolling out roughly 12 to 15 satellite networks a month under the model, even though it is traditionally well connected, says Victor. "It has good infrastructure, with cable and fibre to home as a basis, and yet the satellite services are still doing well."
Where DSL is not available, the US is using the "open skies" model to reach across state boundaries to provide satellite connectivity to the areas where there are no exchanges or copper distance is degrading quality.
"There is no reason why the model can't be used to do the same in SA and Africa," he says. Victor cites the Nepad e-schools project as one example. "Without blanket licensing, how are they expecting to connect the schools?"
(Additional reporting by Damaria Senne)
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