The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has recently warned companies and individuals to stop operating satellite television services in the country without licenses.
The regulator said in a statement that some companies and individuals are importing communication equipment not approved by the TCRA.
The TCRA ordered an immediate end to the operation of satellite television services without licenses.
“Failure to comply with this notice, TCRA shall proceed to take further regulatory and legal action without further notice,” read the statement.
The regulator notes that the Electronic and Postal Communications Act and the Electronic and Postal Communications (Licensing) Regulations require importers and distributors of electronic communication equipment to have licenses from the TCRA.
The regulator also indicated that its main objective is to enhance the welfare of Tanzanian industries through an effective and efficient regulatory framework that ensures universal access to communications.
Jabiri Kuwe Bakari, Director General of TCRA, said, “TCRA is committed to enhancing Tanzanians’ welfare by providing adequate and efficient regulatory services that ensure universal access to communication services through the quality management system in all processes needed. As the TCRA, we caution those operating without a license to stop, as this is unacceptable.”
Bakari notes that media houses that continue operating without a license will face legal action.
