Cape Verde QNAF 2026: New Frequency Allocation Framework Released

On March 16, 2026, the Agência Reguladora Multissetorial da Economia (ARME) published the updated National Frequency Allocation Framework (QNAF), a key regulatory document that defines how radio frequency spectrum is allocated and managed in Cape Verde.

This update aligns national regulations with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Radio Regulations, reinforcing global harmonization and improving spectrum governance.

What is the QNAF?

The QNAF is a regulatory framework that:

• Allocates frequency bands to different services (mobile, satellite, broadcasting, etc.)

• Defines technical conditions for spectrum use

• Ensures efficient and interference-free operation of wireless technologies

  
  

Key Objectives of the Update

The revised framework aims to:

• Ensure efficient management of the radio frequency spectrum

• Reduce and prevent harmful interference

• Promote fair and effective competition in the telecom sector

• Support the growth and modernization of telecommunications services

  
  

Cape Verde QNAF 2026 and ITU Alignment

One of the most important aspects of the Cape Verde QNAF 2026 is its alignment with ITU standards:

• Harmonized frequency bands with international allocations

• Improved cross-border spectrum coordination

• Better compatibility for global telecom devices

• Support for emerging technologies like 5G and IoT

Cape Verde introduces QNAF 2026 to modernize spectrum management and align with global telecom standards.

Key Regulatory Changes

1. Updated Frequency Allocations

• Reorganization of spectrum bands across services

• Potential reallocation of certain frequencies

  
  

2. Enhanced Spectrum Efficiency

• More structured planning for high-demand bands

• Improved long-term spectrum utilization

  
  

3. Strengthened Regulatory Oversight

• Increased monitoring capabilities by ARME

• Clearer compliance and licensing conditions

  
  

What This Means for Manufacturers

Manufacturers of telecom and wireless devices should take immediate action:

• Review frequency band compatibility with updated allocations

• Ensure devices do not operate in restricted or reassigned bands

• Prepare for potential re-testing or certification updates

• Update technical documentation for compliance

  
  

Failure to align products with the new framework may result in market access delays or non-compliance risks.

Certification Impact Summary

Area	Impact
RF Testing	May require updates due to new band allocations
Type Approval	Possible re-certification for existing devices
Market Access	More structured and predictable requirements
Compliance Risk	Reduced if aligned with ITU standards

Timeline + Required Actions

Immediate Actions (2026)

• Review the updated QNAF publication

• Identify impacted frequency bands

  
  

Short-Term Actions

• Evaluate product compliance

• Plan testing updates if required

  
  

Mid-Term Actions

• Update certification strategies

• Coordinate with local regulatory experts