South African regulator ICASA has published draft digital sound broadcasting regulations. Licensing applications are invited for DRM in the MW and FM bands
On 29 March 2019, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa ("ICASA or the Authority”) published a notice1 in the Government Gazette regarding the conclusion of the inquiry into the use of Digital Sound Broadcasting ("DSB”) in South Africa. The said notice contains ICASA’s findings and position on the use of DSB in South Africa.
The Authority hereby declares its intention to make regulations for DSB in line with section 4(1), read with section 30 (2) (d), and 34 (6) of the Electronic Communications Act No. 36 of 2005 ("ECA”) and invites interested parties to make written representations thereon.
The DSB services must be provided using one of the following digital standards: (a) DRM30 technologies to complement AM sound broadcasting services in the band 535.5 - 1606.5 kHz; (b) DRM+ to complement FM sound broadcasting services in the band 87.5 – 108 MHz; or (c) DAB+ to complement FM sound broadcasting services in the band 214 - 240 MHz
