Tanzania Introduces New Guidelines for Satellite-to-Mobile Phone Services
The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has released its first set of guidelines governing the provision of Direct-to-Mobile Phone (D2M) satellite communication services. The framework, issued in July 2025, outlines the technical, regulatory, and commercial conditions under which Satellite Network Operators (SNOs) and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) can collaborate to deliver satellite-to-smartphone connectivity nationwide.
Key Guidelines for Satellite Network Operators
These guidelines set out the regulatory framework for Satellite Network Operators (SNOs) seeking approval to provide Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) services in Tanzania. To qualify, SNOs must meet several key conditions, including:
- Mandatory Landing Rights: SNOs must obtain satellite landing rights in accordance with Tanzania’s Electronic and Postal Communications Regulations (2025).
- Local MNO Partnership Required: All services must be delivered through formal collaborations with licensed Tanzanian mobile operators, with documented technical and commercial agreements.
- Cross-Border Interference Protection: Strict interference prevention measures apply, especially within 15km of national borders, to safeguard neighbouring countries’ networks.
- Quarterly Performance Reporting: Operators must submit regular reports detailing user terminals, service types (voice/SMS/data), and geographic coverage patterns.
- MNO Spectrum Control Maintained: Mobile Network Operators retain full authority over licensed spectrum allocation and usage rights.
Additionally, under the framework, SNOs and MNOs intending to offer such services must submit a joint application to TCRA. This must include details of the network architecture, target coverage areas, spectrum use, and a risk assessment with interference mitigation strategies. For foreign satellites, a valid TCRA-issued landing rights certificate is mandatory. The guidelines also require operators to provide ongoing interference reports and to avoid claiming protection from interference caused by other services.
Click here to download the full document:“Guidelines for Provision of Direct to Mobile Phone Satellite Communication, 2025.”
Historically, satellite communication relied on dedicated satellite phones operating in specific frequency bands (like L-band). However, recent advancements enable satellites to utilise existing cellular (IMT) spectrum, allowing for direct communication with ordinary smartphones. The technology, also referred to globally as Direct-to-Device (D2D), Direct-to-Cell (D2C), or Space-Based Cellular Communication, is gaining momentum worldwide as part of the integration of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) with traditional Terrestrial Networks (TN). The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is exploring the potential use of mobile network frequencies for satellite services, with the issue scheduled for discussion under Agenda Item 1.13 at the World Radiocommunication Conference in 2027 (WRC-27).
How Will This Shape The Future of Africa’s Telecom Landscape?
TCRA appears to be the first regulator in Africa to publish formal guidelines on Direct-to-Device (D2D) low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite services. This notable development marks a clear win for the country’s mobile network operators and could set a precedent for the wider region. In neighbouring Kenya, Safaricom has previously argued that satellite providers should be licensed as infrastructure partners to mobile operators, a position now reflected in Tanzania’s approach.
While this approach reinforces the role of mobile network operators, it also prompts reflection on whether satellite technology’s potential to close Africa’s digital divide, particularly in rural areas, can be fully achieved if service delivery remains aligned with terrestrial operators’ priorities. The interplay between regulatory oversight and technological innovation will be crucial in shaping the next chapter of connectivity on the continent.