The Communications Regulatory Authority (INCM) has commenced allocation of 5G spectrum after receiving formal proposals from Mozambique’s three primary mobile operators.
Tmcel, Vodacom Mozambique, and Movitel have all submitted bids to secure the high-speed frequencies.
This rollout marks a strategic pivot for the Mozambican government, which moved away from traditional spectrum auctions in October 2025.
By opting for an administrative allocation model, the INCM is prioritising rapid infrastructure development over immediate state revenue.
The model enables the regulator to impose strict social obligations on the firms to ensure the rollout addresses the digital divide in a country where internet penetration is approximately 20.5%.
The INCM aims to allocate frequencies across the 700MHz, 2.6GHz and 3.5GHz bands to balance wide territorial coverage with high network capacity.
These frequencies are the fundamental pillars required to support the next generation of mobile services and strengthen the competitiveness of the communications sector, said the INCM.
Under the terms of the allocation, operators face demanding standards regarding service quality and network performance. The licences are accompanied by mandatory requirements for the progressive expansion of nationwide coverage.
“The introduction of 5G represents a decisive step towards accelerating the digitalisation of the economy, promoting the emergence of new digital services and applications, as well as strengthening the competitiveness of the communications sector,” said INCM.
The process includes a specific focus on provincial capitals, as well as rural and peri-urban areas that have a high economic impact.
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