The Botswana Communication Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) has issued type approval verification guidelines for SIM-enabled devices to regulate access to the country’s telecommunications system network.

BOCRA spokesperson Aaron Nyelesi said the guidelines are meant to protect the ICT networks and the consumers against adverse effects of widespread “non-type approved counterfeit and substandard devices.”

The intention is to ensure that only registered devices are used on public networks.

“All interested parties involved in the SIM-enabled device supply chain must first complete the type approval registration process for both the locally manufactured and imported devices,” said Nyelesi.

BOCRA has set up an online verification platform on its website, accessible to both the supply chain and individuals.

The online verification captures device make and model, International Mobile Equipment identity (IMEI) and BOCRA type approval number on the type approval verification system (TAVS).

“Upon successful completion of the verification process, the system shall issue a verification certificate which will give full details of each device unit,” said Nyelesi.

BOCRA says only compliant devices will be able to access the network and the regulator encourages the supply chain to dispose of non-compliant devices in accordance with the Department of Waste Management waste disposal procedures.

Nyelesi said the Authority has a mandate to continuously monitor the ICT market to ensure that the guidelines are followed, adding that counterfeit devices will be flagged.

Meanwhile, the country’s ports of entry authorities will inspect consignments of mobile devices against the active type approval guidelines, device verification certificates and Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) information during the clearance phase for verification and validation purposes.