Tanzania’s Direct-to-Mobile Satellite Framework: Advancing Regulation Through Partnerships

Starlink’s arrival in Tanzania sparked excitement about the future of internet access, especially for remote and underserved communities. Last year, the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) took a decisive step by publishing its official Guidelines for Direct-to-Mobile Phone Satellite Communication, the first framework of its kind in East Africa.

Globally, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is developing rules to ensure that satellite networks (non-terrestrial) and traditional land-based networks (terrestrial) can operate smoothly together. A key discussion on this will take place at the World Radiocommunication Conference in 2027 (WRC-27), under Agenda Item 1.13. This agenda focuses on exploring whether mobile satellite services can share the same licensed frequencies currently used by mobile networks on the ground, thereby extending coverage where towers can’t reach. The decisions made at WRC-27 will play a significant role in shaping the future of global satellite and mobile network connectivity.

While many jurisdictions are awaiting the outcome of WRC-27 deliberations, Tanzania has taken the lead by releasing its guidelines. The framework provides a structured process for Satellite Network Operators (SNOs) seeking authorisation to offer Direct-to-Mobile Phone services in Tanzania. It aims to ensure efficient and fair use of licensed IMT spectrum while safeguarding terrestrial IMT networks both within the country and across neighbouring states.

 Conditions for Direct-to-Mobile Phone Satellite Services

Satellite Network Operators (SNOs) wishing to provide direct-to-mobile (D2M) satellite services in Tanzania must comply with four broad requirements: partnership, interference management, reporting obligations, and spectrum ownership.

These are some of the guidelines released by the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) in a comprehensive framework detailing the process and guidelines for obtaining Satellite Landing Rights Authorisation.

A central requirement is that SNOs must work in partnership with licensed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). These partnerships must be formalised through agreements that clearly outline both technical and commercial terms. Such collaborations are essential to ensure that satellite services complement, rather than compete with, existing terrestrial networks. By coordinating operations and sharing resources, both parties can provide reliable service to end-users.

Interference management is another key element. SNOs must identify any potential interference with IMT services in Tanzania and neighbouring countries and propose practical mitigation measures. Satellite signals operating within 15 kilometres of Tanzania’s borders must remain within set limits to avoid disrupting cross-border networks. SNOs are prohibited from interfering with other services or seeking protection from interference caused by them, ensuring that both domestic and regional mobile services are safeguarded.

The guidelines also impose strict reporting obligations. Every quarter, operators must provide the TCRA with detailed information, including the number and types of user devices accessing satellite IMT services, the services being used (voice, SMS, or data), and the geographic distribution of these users. Any interference cases, including how they were resolved and the challenges encountered, must also be reported. These reporting requirements enable TCRA to monitor service deployment, track user adoption, and address technical or interference issues promptly, thereby supporting transparency and effective spectrum management.

Finally, while satellites may provide direct-to-mobile services, control and ownership of spectrum remain exclusively with licensed MNOs. This ensures the integrity and reliability of existing mobile networks while allowing satellite operators to complement coverage rather than compete for scarce resources. The approach strikes a balance between innovation and regulatory oversight, enabling expanded connectivity to underserved areas without compromising the quality or stability of Tanzania’s mobile communications infrastructure.

Together, these requirements create a structured and predictable environment for D2M satellite services, protecting terrestrial networks, safeguarding cross-border operations, and expanding connectivity to remote and underserved areas, all while maintaining service quality and network stability.

Tanzania’s approach aligns with a growing global trend in which Satellite Network Operators (SNOs) are required to enter into partnerships with existing licensed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) when providing direct-to-mobile (D2M) satellite services. Several countries have adopted similar frameworks to ensure efficient spectrum use and to protect terrestrial networks. For example, in India, the Department of Telecommunications mandates that foreign satellite operators collaborate with Indian MNOs to deliver services directly to mobile users, while ensuring proper spectrum coordination. Similarly, in Brazil, the National Telecommunications Agency (ANATEL) requires satellite operators using licensed mobile frequencies to coordinate with local carriers and submit interference management plans.

The recently published guidelines have the potential to expand connectivity to remote and underserved areas, where terrestrial networks are limited or non-existent, while protecting existing mobile network operators and ensuring efficient use of spectrum. By establishing clear rules for partnerships, interference management, reporting, and spectrum ownership, the guidelines create a framework that balances innovation with regulatory oversight, enabling reliable and inclusive access to mobile services across Tanzania.