The Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), in partnership with the East African Communications Organization (EACO), is hosting the EACO Working Group 5 meeting in Kigali from October 1–3, 2025. The three-day meeting brings together delegates from East African Community (EAC) member states to discuss critical issues shaping the region’s communication landscape, including broadcasting development, spectrum management, and media services regulations.

During the sessions, participants are examining several key topics:

• Development of guidelines on the authorization and use of amateur radio frequencies in the region.
• Establishment of a regulatory framework for local content development and management.
• Joint studies on the impact of emerging technologies on regulation, with a focus on spectrum management and broadcasting.
• Coordination of frameworks for mobile cross-border frequency use and FM radio cross-border frequency management.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Charles Gahungu, Head of ICT Regulation Services at RURA, highlighted the central role of spectrum in modern communications.

“Spectrum is a scarce resource, vital for broadcasting, mobile connectivity, satellite services, and emerging technologies such as 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT). Its efficient, fair, and sustainable management is critical to enabling growth and innovation, ensuring equitable access, and supporting the region’s digital transformation agenda,” he said.

Over the years, EACO Working Group 5 has successfully delivered important regional frameworks, including the EACO Model Policy and Regulatory Framework for Spectrum Management, the EACO Broadcasting Policy, the Framework on the Authorization and Use of Maritime Frequencies and Maritime Mobile Services Identities (MMSI) and Call Signs, as well as the Harmonised Guidelines for Broadcasting Content and the East Africa Radio Frequency Spectrum Allocation Plan.

Ms. Caroline Koech, Executive Director of EACO, commended the group’s progress and encouraged further collaboration.

“I urge you to conclude work on the EACO Regional Framework for Cross-Border Frequency Coordination and the Mechanism for Frequency Coordination for Mobile Services. These will be critical in addressing the growing demand for cross-border frequency coordination across the region,” she emphasized.

The outcomes of this meeting are expected to play a significant role in strengthening regional cooperation and ensuring that communication services in East Africa are guided by harmonized policies and regulations that support innovation, access, and sustainable growth.