NatCA Unveils New Tools to Track Interference and Check Network Quality

The National Communications Authority (NatCA) has taken delivery of new spectrum management and monitoring equipment. The regulator says the tools will help it track signal interference, check network quality independently and protect consumers. The equipment was presented and demonstrated on Wednesday at NatCA Tower in Freetown. The Chief Minister,Dr David Moinina Sengeh, the Minister of Communications, Technology and Innovation Madam Salima Monorma Bah, Board members, World Bank representatives, licensed operators, civil society and the media attended. The delivery completes the Spectrum Management and Monitoring Tools Project. The project falls under the Sierra Leone Digital Transformation Project, is funded by the World Bank and is carried out through the Ministry of Communications, Technology and Innovation.
In his welcome statement, NatCA Director General Amara Brewah said the investment strengthens the Authority’s ability to manage spectrum, monitor compliance, safeguard service quality and protect consumers.
“Radio frequency spectrum is a scarce and valuable national resource,” Brewah said. “It supports the mobile calls we make, the internet services we use, the broadcasts we receive and the digital transactions on which businesses and families increasingly depend.” Brewah said the project gives NatCA four main capabilities- Mobile Spectrum Monitoring System, installed in a specially fitted vehicle, it lets technical teams monitor signals, find the sources of harmful interference and investigate unauthorised use of spectrum in the field, Automated Spectrum Management System, it moves frequency assignment, licensing, spectrum planning and engineering analysis onto digital systems. NatCA says this will make the work more efficient and transparent for operators and investors, Mobile Quality of Service Measurement System, Drive-test equipment and vehicles will let NatCA independently measure network coverage, internet speeds and voice quality and Portable monitoring and inspection tools which include spectrum analysers, electromagnetic field measurement equipment, broadcasting signal analysers and earth ground resistance meters. They will be used for field inspections, technical investigations and broadcasting oversight. The quality-of-service measurements, Brewah said, “will strengthen our ability to establish where service falls short and require corrective action based on evidence.” Brewah said the systems must in the end mean more reliable services and faster fixes for technical problems for consumers. For businesses, reliable connectivity supports productivity. For licensed operators, effective monitoring helps protect their legitimate spectrum assignments and supports fair competition.
He also said the equipment’s value will depend on how it is used.
“The delivery of this equipment is an important step. Its lasting value will depend on how consistently and effectively we use it,” he said. “NatCA’s responsibility is to turn stronger technical capability into better regulatory decisions and measurable improvements in service delivery.”
He asked licensed operators to keep cooperating with the regulator. He said all sides share an interest in a sector “where investment is encouraged, obligations are respected and consumers receive the quality of service they deserve.” Brewah thanked the Government of Sierra Leone, the Ministry of Communications, Technology and Innovation, the World Bank, the Sierra Leone Digital Transformation Project team, development partners, contractors and NatCA staff for bringing the project to completion.
A demonstration of the equipment followed the opening session.