Principal Secretary (PS) Isaboke has been elected Chair of the International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) Africa Preparations for the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27), taking over from Kanono Ramashamole, Principal Secretary for ICT of the Kingdom of Lesotho. The announcement was made during the 2nd African Preparatory Meeting (APM27-2) currently taking place in Nairobi.
Isaboke will lead Africa’s strategic and technical coordination throughout the WRC-27 study cycle, a role that involves steering discussions, harmonizing regional positions, and advocating for the continent’s interests in global spectrum and satellite orbit negotiations.
“Today, we advance the progress initiated during APM27-1. We assess our gains, consolidate common positions, and chart a unified way forward—together,” Isaboke said in his acceptance remarks.
The Nairobi meeting aims to strengthen Africa’s negotiating position for WRC-27, ensuring the continent can influence key decisions on spectrum and satellite orbit allocation—resources critical for broadcasting, telecommunications, and broader economic development. Delegates are also reflecting on Africa’s performance at WRC-23, identifying lessons learned, and refining strategies ahead of the next global conference.
Key issues under discussion include efficient spectrum refarming, harmonization of mobile broadband bands to support the expansion of 5G and preparation for 6G, and the growth of satellite broadband and broadcasting services. Participants are also focusing on the protection of critical services linked to national security and socio-economic resilience.
Spectrum management is central to modern digital transformation, underpinning emerging technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, data sharing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Efficient spectrum allocation enables the fast, reliable connections necessary for devices, sensors, and systems to communicate seamlessly.
By providing a unified platform for African nations to deliberate and align, APM27-2 is positioning the continent to assert a strong, collective voice in shaping the future of global radio communication. With Isaboke at the helm, Africa is expected to advance a coherent strategy that balances innovation, inclusivity, and resilience—ensuring the region’s interests are safeguarded in the increasingly competitive global spectrum landscape.
The WRC-27 is anticipated to address spectrum needs for next-generation technologies, making Africa’s coordinated preparation through forums like APM27-2 more critical than ever.
