May 2024
The Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) has informed on updates about the implementation of the type approval guidelines. Despite the lack of an official announcement, the guidelines have been gradually applied but delays in the implementation of the new online system have caused some instructions to be suspended or modified.
October 2023
BOCRA has announced the equipment exempted from type approval :
Personal computers, laptops, tablets, IoT etc. (embedding WiFi transceivers, Bluetooth transceivers, provided the Wi-Fi transceiver, Wi-Fi5 CERTIFIED™ ;
Receiving equipment only (FM/MW/SW radios, TV, satellite set-top boxes, decoders);
RTTE embedded in vehicles (Blue tooth, navigation, remote sensors, car keys, etc.); however, care should be taken to ensure that RTTE operates in regulated frequency bands ; and ITU-marked GMPCS mobile satellite terminals .
Requirements and deadlines remain the same.
It is possible to receive an exemption letter for your product as proof of exemption.
Contact CSIA for a complete list of products that are now exempt as well as information on the exemption letter.
March 2023
On February 27, 2023, the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) published the new type approval guidelines that outline the conditions a device must meet in order to be approved for use in Botswana.
Contact CSIA for more information on type approval requirements in Botswana.
April 2022
Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) has issued the new Guidelines on the Use of Short-Range Devices (SRDs). The Guidelines already in force describe the regulatory and technical requirements to support and facilitate the effective use of SRDs devices in various spectrum bands.
September 2021
Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) has issued the Type Approval Verification Guidelines (Sim-Enabled Devices), which shall come into effect on 1st April 2022, aimed at all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), SIM-Enabled Device Supply Chain and SIM-Enabled Device users. Contact CSIA to find out how these changes may affect your cellular products in Botswana.
September 2020
The Botswana authority BOCRA issues from now on type approval without expiration date.
Type Approval certificates which still have an expiry date should be updated 3 months in advance to an approval without expiration date. Note, that changes in equipment will still require a new type approval.
Botswana is located in Southern Africa.
The current population as of 2024 is 2,536,732.
The official languages of Botswana are English and Tswana.
Custom Solutions For Your Needs
61535 SW Hwy 97
Suite 5635
Bend, Oregon 97702
503 482 9289
Regulatory Updates for Botswana
Type approval in Botswana
BOCRA (Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority) approval in Botswana refers to the certification or authorization granted by the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority for the provision and operation of certain communications and broadcasting services in the country. BOCRA is the regulator responsible for overseeing and promoting the development of the communications, broadcasting, and postal sectors in Botswana.
The approval process is typically required for entities or individuals seeking to operate in the following areas:
Telecommunications: Companies providing services like mobile phone services, internet services, or
fixed-line telephony.
Broadcasting: Entities wishing to operate radio, television, or other media platforms.
Postal Services: Operators involved in mail and parcel delivery.
Spectrum Licensing: Approval for the use of radio frequency spectrum for wireless communications.
Equipment Importation: Companies importing telecommunications or broadcasting equipment may
need BOCRA approval to ensure the equipment meets technical standards.
BOCRA approval ensures that services and equipment comply with local regulations, industry
standards, and safety requirements. It also helps to ensure fair competition and consumer protection
in the communications and broadcasting sectors.
For example, a business wanting to offer mobile internet services in Botswana would need BOCRA's approval to legally operate, which would include getting a license for operating within the telecommunications space and ensuring their infrastructure meets regulatory standards.
- BOCRA type approval in Botswana requires acceptable CE test reports.
- A local importer holding a Dealer License and local repairman/service is required.
- All approved radio equipment must have a Spectrum Radio License before being imported by the local importer.
- Lead time is approximately 4-6 weeks from the time all documents have been collected.
- Certificate is valid indefinitely.
Botswana Regulatory Approval Overview
Botswana
Botswana BOCRA label requirements:
The official regulations states the label should say:
BTA
REGISTERED No:
1382
The mark should be a permanent mark close to the model identification. It may also be helpful to use it on the packaging and in user information but it is not mandatory in these places unless for reasons of size or practicality the product itself is not marked.
The mark should be durable and the text no less than 2mm in height.
An exemption from marking the equipment directly will usually be granted where the applicant undertakes to provide a copy of the declaration of conformity with each item of equipment sold or to apply the mark to the packaging of the equipment prior to sale or to display a copy of the notice set out in Appendix 3 close to the equipment at the point of sale and in advertisements to supply the product.
As of March 2016 e-labeling is now permitted.
For Information on FCC Certifications, CE Mark or International Approvals
Contact CSIA: (503) 482 9289 or e-mail us at quotes@csiassoc.com
International Type Approval and Safety Approval
CSIA can provide supporting services should your company not be able to meet country specific requirements such as a local representative, local certificate holder, translating documents into the native language, etc.
Contact one of our friendly associates today, they are happy to assist you!
CSIA also offers FCC Certifications, CE Certifications, ISED Canada.
Contact CSIA at (503) 482 9289 or quotes@csiassoc.com