Projects & Initiatives
Strategic programmes and regulatory initiatives currently underway or recently completed by BOCRA.
Active programmes
Universal Access and Service Fund (UASF)
The Universal Access and Service Fund extends affordable broadband connectivity to underserved rural and peri-urban communities across Botswana. The programme funds last-mile infrastructure rollout, community broadband centres, and subsidised connectivity for schools and clinics.
Key outcomes
- 12 community broadband centres established in Phase 1
- Connectivity extended to 18 underserved settlements
- Coverage target: 95% population by 2026
Spectrum Management Modernisation
A comprehensive review and update of Botswana's radio frequency spectrum allocation framework. The programme prepares the spectrum environment for 5G deployment, addresses coexistence issues in the UHF/VHF bands following digital TV migration, and introduces a new automated spectrum monitoring system.
Key outcomes
- 5G spectrum roadmap drafted for public consultation
- Automated spectrum monitoring equipment procured
- New spectrum fee schedule under review
Digital Literacy & Consumer Awareness Campaign
A national public education initiative delivered through radio, social media, and community outreach. The campaign teaches Botswana citizens how to identify communications scams, understand their consumer rights, and use digital services safely.
Key outcomes
- Over 40 community radio programmes broadcast
- Know Your Rights guide distributed to 15,000 households
- Consumer complaint awareness increased by 28% (survey)
Planned & under review
.BW Registry System Upgrade
The .BW domain registry will be migrated to a modern, standards-compliant registry platform. The upgrade will enable online self-service registration, real-time WHOIS updates, EPP protocol compliance, and improved DNS security (DNSSEC).
Key outcomes
- Procurement tender to be issued Q1 2024
- Online registration portal planned for Q3 2024
- DNSSEC rollout planned for Q1 2025
Electronic Communications Amendment Regulations
A review of the Electronic Communications Regulations to address gaps identified since their initial gazetting, including provisions for over-the-top services, data retention, infrastructure sharing, and updated QoS measurement methodologies.
Key outcomes
- Public consultation completed (Nov 2023)
- Submissions under analysis
- Revised regulations expected for gazetting mid-2024
Completed
Cyber Incident Response Framework
Developed and gazetted mandatory cyber incident reporting obligations for all licensed electronic communications operators. The framework defines incident categories, reporting timelines, and BOCRA's response protocols. A reporting portal was launched in Q3 2023.
Key outcomes
- Framework gazetted under Statutory Instrument No. 41 of 2023
- Reporting portal operational from September 2023
- 12 operators trained on reporting obligations