9th Sub Sahara Spectrum Management Conference

Mr. David Mugonyi is the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA). He assumed office on January 15th, 2024.

Mr. Mugonyi has over 20 years of experience in leadership roles spanning public service, media, and strategic communications.

Prior to his appointment, Mr. Mugonyi served in various capacities, including leading strategic communications for the Government of Kenya for over a decade.

As the Head of the Presidential Communications Service, he played a pivotal role as the primary advisor on communications, perception and reputation management at the highest level in the Republic of Kenya.

Mr. Mugonyi had a stellar career in the media, starting as a reporter and rising through the ranks to senior editorial roles at Kenya’s leading media house, the Nation Media Group.

In recognition of his distinguished service to the nation, Mr. Mugonyi was feted with the Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS) award, by the President of Kenya, H.E Uhuru Kenyatta, in 2016.

He holds a Masters Degree in International Journalism from City University in the United Kingdom, a Bachelors Degree in Education from the University of Nairobi and a Postgraduate Diploma in Mass Communication from the same institution.

More information available shortly.

Mr. Nikolai Vassiliev is the Chief, Terrestrial Services Department in the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

He obtained his Master’s degree in radiocommunications in 1985 and MBA in management in 19992. From 1985 to 1996 he worked at different positions for the Russian Ministry of Telecommunications. In 1996 joined the ITU.

His current responsibilities cover the international management of frequency resource for terrestrial radiocommunications, including maritime, aeronautical, mobile, etc., and technical studies of emerging communication technologies, such as 5G, IoT and Intelligent Transport Systems.

Jean-Jacques is a Senior Engineer in Radiocommunications, Electronics and Computer science who graduated in Paris in 1983.

J.J. Massima-Landji is actually the ITU representative for Central Africa and Madagascar and has been resident in Yaoundé since 2009. As Senior Adviser to the Ministry of Communications and Telecommunications of GABON, he was posted in Geneva, where he spent nine years at ITU Headquarters in Geneva as the Permanent Representative of Gabon to ITU from 2004 to 2009 and at the Telecommunications Development Bureau (BDT) as Coordinator of the Iraq Project, from 2000 to 2004. He spent two years as Regional Director for Central Africa for ICO Global Communications, Office based in South Africa, from 1998 to 2000.

Senior Engineer and Director of Posts and Telecommunications in the Gabonese administration, he managed the Telecommunications of his country for more than 15 years ( Head of Telematics and Computer Services from 2004 to 2006, Director of Studies and Computer Science from 2006 to 2010; Central Director of National Telecommunications from 1990 to 1994 and Deputy Director-General of OPT( Office des Postes et Telecommunications), Director General of the T.I.G. (Société des Telecommunications Internationales du Gabon ) in charge of Telecommunications from 1994 to 1998; and was the first Chairman of the Regulatory Body of Gabon: “Agence de Régulation des Télécommunications.

Recognized as an ICT Senior Expert Worldwide, he has a proven experience of more than 37 years in the field of ICT and computer science. He contributed to the implementation of RASCOM as a continental expert and chaired the RASCOM Board of Directors in 1994 and 1995. He attended most of the ICT and ITU conferences.

He also served as a lecturer in the National School of Post and Telecommunications and in the African Institute of Informatics (IAI) from 1984 to 1987 in Libreville, Gabon.

He is French-speaking, fluent in English, and also graduated in English with a UN Proficiency.

PhD in Telecommunications Network with background in Electrical and Electronics Engineering. Achieved 13 Years of expertise in Research, Regulatory Services, Consultancy and Project Management in the IT and Telecoms Sector. Demonstrated proficiency in Leading and executing complex/ Nationwide Telecoms and IT Projects ensuring Regulatory Compliance and providing Strategic Consultancy to Optimise Network Performance and Operational Efficiency.

More information available shortly.

Guillaume Mascot is in charge of Shure’s Global Regulatory Policy. His role involves strengthening Shure thought-leadership among public authorities, institutions, and regulatory bodies, while advocating alongside key players in the ecosystem for a sustainable content creative industry. As the demand for wireless audio equipment grows to fulfil the demand for more contents (films, theater, music, sports, worship, civic events, education,…) and the spectrum becomes scarcer, joint efforts are crucial to ensure long-term access to this limited resource. Guillaume’s role also considers future regulations related to cybersecurity and AI, which may impact Shure’s products.

Guillaume is covering the European Institutions, France as well as supporting the Asia-Pacific region and various Francophone regions around the world.
With nearly 20 years of leadership experience in government and public affairs within multinational telecommunications companies, Guillaume has a strong expertise and in-depth knowledge of the European and Asia-Pacific markets to the development of Shure’s institutional strategy.

Guillaume Mascot, 42, holds a Master’s degree in Political Science from the University of Lille (2004). He began his career at the European Commission before joining the Alcatel-Lucent group as Manager of European Affairs. After spending seven years at the headquarters in France, he was appointed to the position of Director of Public Affairs for the Asia-Pacific region in China, where he was responsible for government relations, successfully influencing political decisions and regulatory frameworks in support of business objectives. In 2016, following the merger and acquisition between Alcatel-Lucent and Nokia, Guillaume became Head of Government Relations for the APAC region (including India), with the mission of enabling Nokia to access the market and develop its business through the establishment of strategic partnerships and participation in high-level events (WEF, ITU, APT). He was also representing GSA (Global Supplier Association) in South East Asia.

More information available shortly.

Kamal is the Director of Public Policy in Sub-Saharan Africa. In his role, Kamal is involved in leading the delivery of GSMA Advocacy programmes in the Sub-Saharan Africa region and the dissemination of messages on a wide variety of policy topics, including Spectrum.

He has worked with the Nigerian Telecoms Regulator and, prior to joining the GSMA, he worked with Etisalat Nigeria where he managed Regulatory Compliance, Spectrum Policy and Technical Regulatory matters. Kamal has also been a member of the Technical Advisory Committee that prepares Nigeria’ s participation at International fora on spectrum and other technical matters.

Kamal holds a B.Sc in Computer Engineering from the American University of Cyprus and an M.Sc in Mobile and Personal Communications from King’s College London. In his spare time, he indulges in Photography and has been known to cheer for Manchester United Football Club of England.

Mortimer has over 20 years’ experience in ICT policy development across the African continent and is a respected regulatory and industry leader in the field. Mortimer leads Policy Impact Partners’ Africa Team and has proven success in engaging with policymakers and stakeholders to achieve clients’ objectives.

Mortimer has a deep understanding of both the regional drivers that impact policies and the specific in-country contexts that shape them. Through his experience in public and private sectors, he has developed a keen sense of how to align the positions of industry and regulators.

As Head of Africa for the GSMA, he was responsible for advancing mobile’s policy agenda in the region and developing effective and sustainable relationships with government departments, legislators and regulators. He led the GSMA’s public policy team in Africa and directed the operations of its regional office in Nairobi, focusing on priority issues such as spectrum, infrastructure sharing, taxation and mobile financial services.

Prior to the GSMA, Mortimer spent ten years at Vodacom South Africa where he was responsible for all technical regulatory matters, and for policy support to Vodacom’s operating companies in Lesotho, Mozambique, Tanzania and Democratic Republic of Congo. Over this period, he played an instrumental role in helping the mobile industry secure digital dividend spectrum at the 2007 and 2012 UN World Radiocommunication Conferences.

Before joining the private sector, Mortimer spent six years in engineering and management positions at the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa.

Mortimer has an MSc in telecommunications engineering from the Moscow Technical University of Communications and Informatics, and an MBA from the University of Pretoria. He is registered with the Engineering Council of South Africa, is a Fellow of the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers and is also a member of the Institute of Directors of Southern Africa.

Elizabeth Migwalla is Senior Director and Head of Government Affairs (Africa) for Qualcomm International Incorporated (Qualcomm). In this role, which she has held for eight years, Elizabeth interfaces directly with key government ministries, regulatory authorities as well as regional and international regulatory forums, in order to drive the adoption of advanced broadband wireless technologies and service on the continent.

Elizabeth’s distinguished career in various aspects of telecommunications engineering, operations, services and policy spans more than 31 years. She has built a reputation as one of Africa’s leading experts on communications policy through her many accomplishments during this period. In 2012 Elizabeth was named among the top 50 female executives in Middle East and Africa by CommsMEA magazine.

Prior to joining Qualcomm Elizabeth served The Boeing Company as its Regional Director for Regulatory Affairs for four years. Elizabeth also performed a similar role for ICO Global Communications for a period of five years.

Before entering the private sector in 1997, Elizabeth worked at the Kenya Post and Telecommunications Corporation, as both head of its International Services and Planning and Engineering departments. Elizabeth holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Engineering from the University of Nairobi (Kenya), and an MBA from Bond University in Australia.

Elizabeth Migwalla is Senior Director and Head of Government Affairs (Africa) for Qualcomm International Incorporated (Qualcomm). In this role, which she has held for eight years, Elizabeth interfaces directly with key government ministries, regulatory authorities as well as regional and international regulatory forums, in order to drive the adoption of advanced broadband wireless technologies and service on the continent.

Elizabeth’s distinguished career in various aspects of telecommunications engineering, operations, services and policy spans more than 31 years. She has built a reputation as one of Africa’s leading experts on communications policy through her many accomplishments during this period. In 2012 Elizabeth was named among the top 50 female executives in Middle East and Africa by CommsMEA magazine.

Prior to joining Qualcomm Elizabeth served The Boeing Company as its Regional Director for Regulatory Affairs for four years. Elizabeth also performed a similar role for ICO Global Communications for a period of five years.

Before entering the private sector in 1997, Elizabeth worked at the Kenya Post and Telecommunications Corporation, as both head of its International Services and Planning and Engineering departments. Elizabeth holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Engineering from the University of Nairobi (Kenya), and an MBA from Bond University in Australia.

Gababo Wako is a spectrum management expert with the Communications Authority of Kenya, serving as the Principal Officer – Frequency Compliance. He holds an Electrical Engineering degree, an MBA in Strategic Management from Kenya, and an M.Sc. in Electronics Engineering from Germany. Throughout his career in ICT regulation, universal service projects, and spectrum planning and engineering. He has proudly represented his country and the region in numerous ITU Radiocommunication meetings and World Radio Conferences, showcasing his expertise on the international stage.

Gababo has significantly contributed to developing technical and regulatory aspects in Kenya, working across diverse areas such as telecommunications, broadcasting, satellite, and frequency spectrum management. Approachable and well-versed in explaining complex topics, he is eager to share his insights and experiences at the 8th Sub Sahara Spectrum Management Conference, where he will undoubtedly contribute valuable perspectives and engage with fellow professionals in the field.

A dedicated and experienced communications professional with 26 year’s experience in the communications industry including 9 year’s regulatory experience in the broadcasting and telecommunications industry being employed with the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia since 2012. She has been instrumental in setting regulatory frameworks in Namibia for spectrum management, infrastructure sharing, quality of service, type approval, numbering and a service technology neutral licensing regime for the telecommunications and broadcasting industry including drafting of regulations and consultative documents. Prior to joining the regulator she was responsible for various technical and commercial projects from scoping and planning stage to completion for two mobile operators in Namibia. Currently she serves as vice chairperson of the CRASA Electronic Communications Committee, SADC Rapporteur for Agenda Item 1.5 and Vice-Coordinator for chapter 1 and ATU champion for Agenda Item 1.5 in preparation for WRC-23 as well as Chairperson of WG2 within ITU TG 6/1 for Agenda Item 1.5.

Lucy Nyakwera is a Telecommunications Engineer with experience in Spectrum management and research. She has made valuable contributions to the effective engineering, planning, and authorization of RF spectrum resources, aligning with the Uganda Communications Commission’s (UCC) mandate and national Spectrum policy objectives.

Currently, Lucy serves in the Spectrum Engineering and Authorization unit within the Spectrum Management Division at the Uganda Communications Commission, a position she has held since January 2020. In this role, she has been instrumental in efficiently managing administrative and technical inquiries related to radio frequency spectrum applications. She has also played an active role in improving spectrum management processes at the Commission.

Lucy actively participates in the National Preparatory Committee (NPC) for World Radiocommunication Conferences (WRC23), specifically coordinating Chapter 4 agenda items. Additionally, she is an active member of the East African Communications Organisation (EACO) Working Group 5, focusing on Broadcasting Development, Spectrum Management, and Media Services Regulations.

Lucy has participated in and completed several internationally accredited training, including the prestigious ITU Academy’s Spectrum Management Training Program (SMTP) and specialized courses from the United States Telecommunications Training Institute (USTTI).

Before her current role, she served in various capacities at Uganda Telecom Limited, the National Telecommunications operator company, for nine (9) years. During this time, she held positions as a Radio Frequency Planning Engineer and Core Network Planning Engineer, demonstrating her skills in network planning and optimization to ensure quality service delivery.

Elizabeth Migwalla is Senior Director and Head of Government Affairs (Africa) for Qualcomm International Incorporated (Qualcomm). In this role, which she has held for eight years, Elizabeth interfaces directly with key government ministries, regulatory authorities as well as regional and international regulatory forums, in order to drive the adoption of advanced broadband wireless technologies and service on the continent.

Elizabeth’s distinguished career in various aspects of telecommunications engineering, operations, services and policy spans more than 31 years. She has built a reputation as one of Africa’s leading experts on communications policy through her many accomplishments during this period. In 2012 Elizabeth was named among the top 50 female executives in Middle East and Africa by CommsMEA magazine.

Prior to joining Qualcomm Elizabeth served The Boeing Company as its Regional Director for Regulatory Affairs for four years. Elizabeth also performed a similar role for ICO Global Communications for a period of five years.

Before entering the private sector in 1997, Elizabeth worked at the Kenya Post and Telecommunications Corporation, as both head of its International Services and Planning and Engineering departments. Elizabeth holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Engineering from the University of Nairobi (Kenya), and an MBA from Bond University in Australia.

Gababo Wako is a spectrum management expert with the Communications Authority of Kenya, serving as the Principal Officer – Frequency Compliance. He holds an Electrical Engineering degree, an MBA in Strategic Management from Kenya, and an M.Sc. in Electronics Engineering from Germany. Throughout his career in ICT regulation, universal service projects, and spectrum planning and engineering. He has proudly represented his country and the region in numerous ITU Radiocommunication meetings and World Radio Conferences, showcasing his expertise on the international stage.

Gababo has significantly contributed to developing technical and regulatory aspects in Kenya, working across diverse areas such as telecommunications, broadcasting, satellite, and frequency spectrum management. Approachable and well-versed in explaining complex topics, he is eager to share his insights and experiences at the 8th Sub Sahara Spectrum Management Conference, where he will undoubtedly contribute valuable perspectives and engage with fellow professionals in the field.

A dedicated and experienced communications professional with 26 year’s experience in the communications industry including 9 year’s regulatory experience in the broadcasting and telecommunications industry being employed with the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia since 2012. She has been instrumental in setting regulatory frameworks in Namibia for spectrum management, infrastructure sharing, quality of service, type approval, numbering and a service technology neutral licensing regime for the telecommunications and broadcasting industry including drafting of regulations and consultative documents. Prior to joining the regulator she was responsible for various technical and commercial projects from scoping and planning stage to completion for two mobile operators in Namibia. Currently she serves as vice chairperson of the CRASA Electronic Communications Committee, SADC Rapporteur for Agenda Item 1.5 and Vice-Coordinator for chapter 1 and ATU champion for Agenda Item 1.5 in preparation for WRC-23 as well as Chairperson of WG2 within ITU TG 6/1 for Agenda Item 1.5.

Lucy Nyakwera is a Telecommunications Engineer with experience in Spectrum management and research. She has made valuable contributions to the effective engineering, planning, and authorization of RF spectrum resources, aligning with the Uganda Communications Commission’s (UCC) mandate and national Spectrum policy objectives.

Currently, Lucy serves in the Spectrum Engineering and Authorization unit within the Spectrum Management Division at the Uganda Communications Commission, a position she has held since January 2020. In this role, she has been instrumental in efficiently managing administrative and technical inquiries related to radio frequency spectrum applications. She has also played an active role in improving spectrum management processes at the Commission.

Lucy actively participates in the National Preparatory Committee (NPC) for World Radiocommunication Conferences (WRC23), specifically coordinating Chapter 4 agenda items. Additionally, she is an active member of the East African Communications Organisation (EACO) Working Group 5, focusing on Broadcasting Development, Spectrum Management, and Media Services Regulations.

Lucy has participated in and completed several internationally accredited training, including the prestigious ITU Academy’s Spectrum Management Training Program (SMTP) and specialized courses from the United States Telecommunications Training Institute (USTTI).

Before her current role, she served in various capacities at Uganda Telecom Limited, the National Telecommunications operator company, for nine (9) years. During this time, she held positions as a Radio Frequency Planning Engineer and Core Network Planning Engineer, demonstrating her skills in network planning and optimization to ensure quality service delivery.

Ross is a long-term special adviser to the GSMA on government affairs across a number of issues affecting mobile broadband growth. He fulfils this role through his consultancy business RB Communications. Prior to this Ross worked at Access Partnership where he served as a director charged with government affairs and as a financial analyst for the mobile and satellite industries at TelecomFinance.

Dr Stephane Mebaley Ekome is currently a Senior Engineer within the SES’s Spectrum Management and Development team. He supports and leads efforts in the EMEA region, that optimize and value the company’s spectrum assets and foster its long-term strategy to maintain SES at a leading position within the satellite industry. He engages in various technical and spectrum management activities to analyse and identify spectrum opportunities for SES and potential threats for its fleet of satellites.
Stephane started his career 17 years ago as a R&D engineer and developed a solid expertise in the modelling and design of wireless communications systems, first at Orange labs, and after at CNRS, in France. In 2014, he joined the spectrum management community as an Expert in Spectrum Engineering at ANFR, where he defended the French administration and industries interests on different topics and headed the French delegation in different forums within the CEPT and ITU-R bodies.
Stephane is passionate of ICT and technologies and believes any expertise is meant to be shared. In that sense, in 2019 he founded and is actual CEO of the African Communications Office, a consulting entity that aims at providing technical support and training in various areas of ICT including spectrum engineering and management but also regulatory and public policy affairs. He aims to contribute to bridge the digital divide in Africa by levelling up the technical and soft skills of people in regulatory bodies and Telco companies throughout the continent, but also wherever needed across the globe.

Gerishon Gitonga is the Head of Network planning and Design at Safaricom PLC, Kenya. Gerishon has over the years developed a deep understanding in planning, operations and support of the mobile systems as it evolved from 2G to 5G. A believer in power of technology, Gerishon is leading a team to develop a future scalable network that is cost efficient and highly digital. He inspires and engages teams to deliver superior experience.

Soren Tang Sorensen is a London-based economist with more than 15 years of experience advising clients on auction design and bidding strategy in auctions. He has extensive experience with spectrum auctions, having advised clients on spectrum auctions in more than 40 countries in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North America. Dr. Sorensen helps his clients with auction design and implementation and provides advice on bidding strategies for mobile network operators. He frequently provides on-site strategy support during live auctions, and he has experience with all common auction formats for spectrum auctions, including Combinatorial Clock Auction (CCA), Combinatorial Multiple Round Auction (CMRA), Simultaneous Multiple Round Auction (SMRA), Clock Auction (CA), First/Second Price Sealed Bid Auction (FPSB/SPSB), and various hybrid auction formats.

Ms. Sithole has acquired vast experience in administration, communications and media, data collection and personnel management in different sectors. She established a business that provides strategic direction and leadership on all project functions based on her years of experience in the public sector. Ms Sithole is a business owner who utilizes her strategic skills to influence and impact society.

Ms. Sithole holds a BTech degree in Public Relations and Communications and an Advanced Management Development Programme and non-financial management certificate.

She started her career as a nurse at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital. She later joined the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry as a junior hydrological assistant to the Communications Officer.

Mr. Déogratias BIZINDAVYI is a Master of Science in Telecommunications. He has proven experience in the field of Telecommunications and Radio communications.

Since February 2000 until today, he is the Head of Frequency Spectrum Management, licensing and monitoring.

He also actively participates in regional and international activities such as those of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the African Telecommunications Union (UAT) and EACO (East African Communications Organization).

In EACO, he chaired Working Group 11 on Spectrum Management and preparation of World Radio communication Conferences for 5 years and after Vice Chair of the EACO Working Group 06 on Broadcasting Regulation and Spectrum Management.

More information available shortly.

Graham Friend is the co-founder and Managing Director of Coleago, where he focuses on strategic business planning, valuation, auction bidding strategy and regulatory issues.

With over 25 years in the telecoms sector, Graham boasts a wealth of experience advising a diverse clientele including operators, regulators, governments and investors across both developed and emerging telecom markets. His academic journey includes graduate and postgraduate studies in Economics at Trinity College, Cambridge, as well as being a qualified chartered accountant and the co-author of the Economist’s Guide to Business Planning and Guide to Business Modelling. Graham also provides coaching on communication, presentation and impact skills where he leverages his experience as a TEDx speaker coach. Outside of the telecoms industry, Graham is an ultra-endurance athlete and has represented Great Britain as an age-group athlete in the Olympic and Ironman distance triathlon.

Soren Tang Sorensen is a London-based economist with more than 15 years of experience advising clients on auction design and bidding strategy in auctions. He has extensive experience with spectrum auctions, having advised clients on spectrum auctions in more than 40 countries in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North America. Dr. Sorensen helps his clients with auction design and implementation and provides advice on bidding strategies for mobile network operators. He frequently provides on-site strategy support during live auctions, and he has experience with all common auction formats for spectrum auctions, including Combinatorial Clock Auction (CCA), Combinatorial Multiple Round Auction (CMRA), Simultaneous Multiple Round Auction (SMRA), Clock Auction (CA), First/Second Price Sealed Bid Auction (FPSB/SPSB), and various hybrid auction formats.

Ms. Sithole has acquired vast experience in administration, communications and media, data collection and personnel management in different sectors. She established a business that provides strategic direction and leadership on all project functions based on her years of experience in the public sector. Ms Sithole is a business owner who utilizes her strategic skills to influence and impact society.

Ms. Sithole holds a BTech degree in Public Relations and Communications and an Advanced Management Development Programme and non-financial management certificate.

She started her career as a nurse at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital. She later joined the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry as a junior hydrological assistant to the Communications Officer.

Mr. Déogratias BIZINDAVYI is a Master of Science in Telecommunications. He has proven experience in the field of Telecommunications and Radio communications.

Since February 2000 until today, he is the Head of Frequency Spectrum Management, licensing and monitoring.

He also actively participates in regional and international activities such as those of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the African Telecommunications Union (UAT) and EACO (East African Communications Organization).

In EACO, he chaired Working Group 11 on Spectrum Management and preparation of World Radio communication Conferences for 5 years and after Vice Chair of the EACO Working Group 06 on Broadcasting Regulation and Spectrum Management.

More information available shortly.

Graham Friend is the co-founder and Managing Director of Coleago, where he focuses on strategic business planning, valuation, auction bidding strategy and regulatory issues.

With over 25 years in the telecoms sector, Graham boasts a wealth of experience advising a diverse clientele including operators, regulators, governments and investors across both developed and emerging telecom markets. His academic journey includes graduate and postgraduate studies in Economics at Trinity College, Cambridge, as well as being a qualified chartered accountant and the co-author of the Economist’s Guide to Business Planning and Guide to Business Modelling. Graham also provides coaching on communication, presentation and impact skills where he leverages his experience as a TEDx speaker coach. Outside of the telecoms industry, Graham is an ultra-endurance athlete and has represented Great Britain as an age-group athlete in the Olympic and Ironman distance triathlon.

Rihab joined the business development team in 2022 with a specific focus on emerging markets. She previously took part in the export program of the Walloon Export and Foreign Investment agency of Belgium. Rihab holds three master’s degrees in management focusing on commercial actions, marketing and international business from the National School of Business and Management of Marrakech in Morocco, HEC Liège in Belgium and the University of Pavià in Italy.

A dedicated and experienced communications professional with 26 year’s experience in the communications industry including 9 year’s regulatory experience in the broadcasting and telecommunications industry being employed with the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia since 2012. She has been instrumental in setting regulatory frameworks in Namibia for spectrum management, infrastructure sharing, quality of service, type approval, numbering and a service technology neutral licensing regime for the telecommunications and broadcasting industry including drafting of regulations and consultative documents. Prior to joining the regulator she was responsible for various technical and commercial projects from scoping and planning stage to completion for two mobile operators in Namibia. Currently she serves as vice chairperson of the CRASA Electronic Communications Committee, SADC Rapporteur for Agenda Item 1.5 and Vice-Coordinator for chapter 1 and ATU champion for Agenda Item 1.5 in preparation for WRC-23 as well as Chairperson of WG2 within ITU TG 6/1 for Agenda Item 1.5.

More information available shortly.

Ali Cheema has two decades of experience working in ICT policy advocacy, technology standardization, mobile broadband networks, and radio spectrum harmonization with the aim to facilitate cost effective connectivity.

Cheema is motivated by a strong belief in the catalytic role of mobile broadband for socioeconomic progress in a country, he currently leads a team of experts to drive Ericsson’s ICT policy advocacy efforts across Middle East and Africa in his role as the Head of Government and Industry Relations at Ericsson MEA.

Gerishon Gitonga is the Head of Network planning and Design at Safaricom PLC, Kenya. Gerishon has over the years developed a deep understanding in planning, operations and support of the mobile systems as it evolved from 2G to 5G. A believer in power of technology, Gerishon is leading a team to develop a future scalable network that is cost efficient and highly digital. He inspires and engages teams to deliver superior experience.

Peng serves as the Vice-President of Policy & Regulatory at GSOA, where he spearheads advocacy efforts in critical policy and regulatory domains, including spectrum management, market access, and national policy initiatives. With a rich background in the telecommunications sector and expertise across mobile and satellite industries, he’s been advising governments and telecom industry globally.

Before joining GSOA, Peng played a pivotal role at Eutelsat OneWeb in shaping international regulatory and policy frameworks, focusing on delivering satellite licensing structures to accommodate Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations, and tailoring satellite regulatory procedure during WRC-23.

Prior to this, at GSMA, Peng was responsible for the global campaign aimed at optimizing spectrum licensing conditions for mobile operators worldwide. He led a diverse team of policy experts across developing markets, engaging policymakers and regulators to advocate for industry best practices in telecom policy.

Peng holds a Master’s degree in Telecommunication from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology of Lausanne, complemented by an Executive MBA from the London Business School. Peng is fluent in English, Mandarin, and French.

More information available shortly.

Basebi holds A post graduate Diploma in Leadership Development in ICT and Knowledge Society from Dublin City University in Ireland.

Mrs. Mosinyi also holds a BEng Honors in Electronics majoring in Telecommunications from Multimedia University in Malaysia. She graduated from Cable and Wireless College in Coventry 1994 with a BTEC Higher National Diploma. She also holds a Certificate in Telecommunications Policy and Regulation from Witwatersrand University in South Africa. She has over 20 years of experience in the Telecommunications field 16 of which have been spent in Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority a communications regulator in Botswana. During the 16 years, she has been responsible for several portfolios including Licensing, Type Approvals, Compliance and Spectrum Management where she was appointed to the Position of Manager Spectrum Planning in April 2016.

Mrs. Mosinyi has been very instrumental in the preparatory processes for WRC’s on behalf of Botswana and SADC Region from 2010. She started her career in Telecommunications in 1991 where she was working at the incumbent Botswana Telecommunications Corporation as an Assistant Switching Engineer. In 1996 She joined the Botswana Police as a cadet Inspector under the Transport and Telecommunications Branch and she was mainly responsible for the entire telecommunications network of the Police Service. In 2000 She then joined the Regulatory the Botswana Telecommunications Authority under the Department of Engineering Services where she was responsible for Licensing, type approvals etc.

Dut Acol De Dut is the Director of Spectrum Management at the National Communication Authority which is the Telecommunication regulator in the Republic of South Sudan. Dut is passionate about enabling connectivity for all in South Sudan by the use of various technologies possible, to take advantage of the crucial role that ICT plays in transforming the lives of the people and bridging the digital divide.

Dut previously was the Head of ICT at the Ministry of Telecommunications and Postal Services. He also worked at 3COM and Telcordia Technologies (formerly Bellcore).

Dut has a Master’s degree in Electronics Engineering and a BSEE.

Abdou-rachid Idris Nour is the Adviser to the Minister of Communication in charge of Posts and Telecommunications of Djibouti and a Member of the African Working Group on Artificial Intelligence of African Union.

Helen leads licensing and regulatory efforts on the Amazon Kuiper International Regulatory Affairs team. She works with National Administrations and regional associations in Europe, Middle East, and Africa to ensure that affordable and reliable satellite broadband services will reach populations that are not adequately covered by the available services. Previously, at Access Partnership, Helen advised telecommunications companies on technology policy and regulation to enable them to efficiently access global markets. Prior to that, at Ofcom, the United Kingdom regulator, she helped develop Public Policy, notably contributing to research on the possibility of Open Communications and on the needs of broadband users in the UK. Helen was a long-time regulator at the Uganda Communications Commission, helping to advise on national ICT policy, developing regulations and standards, managing radio spectrum, developing licensing frameworks and designing and implementing projects for the Ugandan rural access programme. Her background is in Electrical engineering with specialisation in telecommunications.

Saul has worked in the wireless technology and spectrum management sector for over twenty years. He started his career at Ofcom, the UK regulator and moved into consulting 14 years ago. In this time he has delivered many technical consulting projects for a range of global clients and worked across a range of technologies including 2G/3G/4G/5G, Wi-Fi and IoT for regulators, enterprises and operators. Saul’s extensive knowledge helps businesses and public sector organisations understand the complexities of the latest technologies.

More information available shortly.

More information available shortly.

Ross is a long-term special adviser to the GSMA on government affairs across a number of issues affecting mobile broadband growth. He fulfils this role through his consultancy business RB Communications. Prior to this Ross worked at Access Partnership where he served as a director charged with government affairs and as a financial analyst for the mobile and satellite industries at TelecomFinance.

Ivan Suarez is a global advisor specialising in satellite and spectrum policy and regulation. He assists companies and governments with their strategy, compliance, licensing and policy needs, covering SatComms and other space-related industries. In recent years, he has worked on a vast number of projects related to policy and regulation for D2D products, satellite broadband internet, and the launch of 5G satellite networks. Ivan is actively involved in several regional groups in preparation for WRC-27, focusing on Latin America and Africa. He contributes to several publications such as ViaSatellite and SpaceNews, covering different areas of the New Space Economy. He holds several Masters Degrees in Telecommunications Law and International Relations.

Callum is a Manager at Aetha Consulting, a boutique consultancy focussed on the TMT sector, with experience in areas including spectrum valuation, spectrum fee setting, and mobile network modelling, advising both telecoms regulators and operators globally.

Callum has supported mobile operators in Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and South America on topics including spectrum valuation, spectrum strategy, and spectrum synergy. He has supported regulators with issues such as spectrum policy and pricing – involving detailed global benchmarks of spectrum prices and fee setting methodology for all spectrum services.

Callum holds an MSc in Theoretical Physics and Applied Mathematics from the University of Birmingham.

Asuenize Adiga, a telecommunications regulator with over 13 years of experience in spectrum management with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) the Telecommunications Regulatory Body of Nigeria, oversees Nigeria’s telecommunications satellite coordination, with the Spece Services Unit in the Spectrum Administration Department and is a registered Electrical Electronics and Communication Engineer in Nigeria.

Dut Acol De Dut is the Director of Spectrum Management at the National Communication Authority which is the Telecommunication regulator in the Republic of South Sudan. Dut is passionate about enabling connectivity for all in South Sudan by the use of various technologies possible, to take advantage of the crucial role that ICT plays in transforming the lives of the people and bridging the digital divide.

Dut previously was the Head of ICT at the Ministry of Telecommunications and Postal Services. He also worked at 3COM and Telcordia Technologies (formerly Bellcore).

Dut has a Master’s degree in Electronics Engineering and a BSEE.

Joe Frans is a seasoned expert in broadcasting policy and entrepreneurship, having successfully founded and exited multiple digital terrestrial and radio broadcasting ventures. He has a strong focus on ensuring Programme Making and Special Events (PMSE) and Digital Terrestrial Television have the spectrum needed to thrive and innovate, Joe has been a consistent voice in advocating for equitable and efficient spectrum allocation.

As the editor-in-chief of Spectrum Insights Africa, a quarterly newsletter dedicated to discussing spectrum use, policy, and management in the sub-700 MHz band across Africa, Joe plays a critical role in shaping the continent’s spectrum landscape. His work with Save Our Spectrum further demonstrates his commitment to preserving essential broadcasting infrastructure.

Currently, he is engaged with Broadcast Networks Europe, the African Union of Broadcasting, and the European Broadcasting Union. He will represent Sennheiser at the 9th Sub-Sahara Spectrum Management Conference in Nairobi. His previous involvement in World Radiocommunication Conferences (WRC) highlights his long-standing advocacy for efficient spectrum use.

Joe Frans leadership also extends to public service, as a former Member of the Swedish Parliament and the board of the University of Stockholm.

Bashir Gwandu Holds a BSc and a number of Masters degrees, as well as a PhD in Electrical Engineering from prestigious Universities around the world. He has designed many devices that are used in the telecoms, oil/gas, power, defense, and aviation industries, some of which have been patented in Europe and the United States. He is a Chartered Electrical Engineer, and one of the Fellows of the prestigious Institution of Engineering Technology (IET) UK since 2010 (being one of the few Engineers of African origin that attained IET Fellowship ranking). Whilst in academia, he published over 40 Electronic and Electrical Engineering Research papers in world Class Electrical Engineering Journals and Conference proceedings. His technical publications are very highly cited internationally, which is an attestation of their high standard of quality.

Dr Gwandu who served as Acting EVC/CEO of the NCC in 2010, was the Executive Commissioner for Engineering and Technical Standards at the NCC; supervised all Directors/Staff concerned with National Spectrum planning, monitoring, and management, Quality of Service Monitoring and Network Optimization, Equipment Conformance Assessment and Interoperability Testing-Type-approval, Numbering Plan, Allocation and Management. He was the Executive Commissioner in charge of Licensing and Consumer Affairs of the NCC until June 2007. He was involved in NCC-based training of personnel from other partner regulatory bodies of Africa in different aspects of telecom regulation. Gwandu was part of a number of Nigerian Presidential/Ministerial think-tank committees including; Vision-20-2020, Nigerian ICT RoadMap, the first Panel of Experts that vets and approves University Research funding applications under TETFund, the Launch Committee of the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NigComsat-1) and the National Broadband Plan 2020-2025 etc. He represented Nigeria and sometimes Africa, as a lead speaker at a number of UN World Telecommunications Conferences.

Jean-Pierre Faisan is Spectrum Policy Advisor for TDF, and has been a Board Member of the association Broadcast Networks Europe since 2013.

A graduate from Ecole Polytechnique and Telecom Paris-Tech, he has more than 29 years of experience in the telecommunications industry where he held a series of engineering then managing positions at Intelsat, CCETT (now Orange Labs), Sofratev and Gobé and TDF. He is also the founder and managing partner of Leader Wave, a consulting company specialized on spectrum policy.

Director, Convergant Kenya Limited: a consulting firm specializing in ICT policy, strategy and regulatory affairs.

Consultant and Special Advisor, Africa Policy and Regulatory Affairs, Huawei.

Former Communications Secretary/CEO at the National Communication Secretariat (NCS), the statutory national policy advisory institution where he led a cross-functional team of experts to advise the government of Kenya on the development of ICT sector policies, strategies and legislation.

Immediate former chairman of the ITU Radiocommunication Advisory Group RAG, a position he served in for 10 years until WRC-23.

Coordinated the development of the digital economy strategy for Kenya and other policies and digital strategies.

Expert in development of policy and regulatory frameworks, mobile broadband technologies, and radiocommunication/spectrum management having undertaken several assignments for ITU and other institutions in this area.

Awarded Moran of the Burning Spear (MBS) and Head of State Commendation (HSC) by the President of Kenya in recognition of distinguished contribution and outstanding services in the ICT sector.

MSc. Engineering Management – University of Southern California, BSc (Hons) – University of Nairobi.

Soren Tang Sorensen is a London-based economist with more than 15 years of experience advising clients on auction design and bidding strategy in auctions. He has extensive experience with spectrum auctions, having advised clients on spectrum auctions in more than 40 countries in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North America. Dr. Sorensen helps his clients with auction design and implementation and provides advice on bidding strategies for mobile network operators. He frequently provides on-site strategy support during live auctions, and he has experience with all common auction formats for spectrum auctions, including Combinatorial Clock Auction (CCA), Combinatorial Multiple Round Auction (CMRA), Simultaneous Multiple Round Auction (SMRA), Clock Auction (CA), First/Second Price Sealed Bid Auction (FPSB/SPSB), and various hybrid auction formats.

Graduate of University of Niamey (Niger) and National Telecommunications Institute in Evry (France), Mr Boraud has 29 years’ experience in the ICT sector, including 19 years in the field of radiocommunication.

After an experience as a teacher, in particular in the field of spectrum management and monitoring, at ESMT1 in Dakar – Senegal, he has been working since 2005 for Niger’s electronics communication and postal regulatory authority ARCEP2, in the radio communication field; He is currently a Project Manager.

Ahmed contributed actively to 2006 Regional Radiocommunication Conference (RRC-2006), responsible for planning terrestrial digital broadcasting service in certain parts of Regions 1 and 3, in the frequency bands 174-230 MHz and 470-862 MHz (RRC-06), and was involved in ITU World Radiocommunication Conferences of 2007, 2012, 2015, 2019 and 2023. He participated in ITU Radiocommunication Conferences of 2012, 2015 and 2019. Mr Boraud had been Vice-Chairman of ECOWAS preparatory meetings for 2015 World Radiocommunication Conference. Currently, the Chair of ECOWAS preparatory meetings for 2023 World Radiocommunication.

Ahmed participated in regional and international forums on ICT policy including those relating to Radiocommunications. He has frequently spoken on radio communication issues.
Mr Boraud has had several missions on:

– Development of spectrum management Policy, legislative and regulatory frameworks;
– Development of national strategy and roadmap for Analogue to Digital Transition;
– Development of Policy, legislation and regulatory frameworks for Digital Terrestrial Television;
– SMS4DC Training;
– Development of a spectrum pricing models;
– Development of a model of cross border frequency coordination agreement incorporating a standardized calculation method for Africa, HCM4A;
– Assessment of cross border frequency coordination agreements in West Africa;
– Development of action plan of JAES II, a AUC-EU project which aims to foster universally accessible and affordable broadband across Africa.

Basebi holds A post graduate Diploma in Leadership Development in ICT and Knowledge Society from Dublin City University in Ireland.

Mrs. Mosinyi also holds a BEng Honors in Electronics majoring in Telecommunications from Multimedia University in Malaysia. She graduated from Cable and Wireless College in Coventry 1994 with a BTEC Higher National Diploma. She also holds a Certificate in Telecommunications Policy and Regulation from Witwatersrand University in South Africa. She has over 20 years of experience in the Telecommunications field 16 of which have been spent in Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority a communications regulator in Botswana. During the 16 years, she has been responsible for several portfolios including Licensing, Type Approvals, Compliance and Spectrum Management where she was appointed to the Position of Manager Spectrum Planning in April 2016.

Mrs. Mosinyi has been very instrumental in the preparatory processes for WRC’s on behalf of Botswana and SADC Region from 2010. She started her career in Telecommunications in 1991 where she was working at the incumbent Botswana Telecommunications Corporation as an Assistant Switching Engineer. In 1996 She joined the Botswana Police as a cadet Inspector under the Transport and Telecommunications Branch and she was mainly responsible for the entire telecommunications network of the Police Service. In 2000 She then joined the Regulatory the Botswana Telecommunications Authority under the Department of Engineering Services where she was responsible for Licensing, type approvals etc.

Mortimer has over 20 years’ experience in ICT policy development across the African continent and is a respected regulatory and industry leader in the field. Mortimer leads Policy Impact Partners’ Africa Team and has proven success in engaging with policymakers and stakeholders to achieve clients’ objectives.

Mortimer has a deep understanding of both the regional drivers that impact policies and the specific in-country contexts that shape them. Through his experience in public and private sectors, he has developed a keen sense of how to align the positions of industry and regulators.

As Head of Africa for the GSMA, he was responsible for advancing mobile’s policy agenda in the region and developing effective and sustainable relationships with government departments, legislators and regulators. He led the GSMA’s public policy team in Africa and directed the operations of its regional office in Nairobi, focusing on priority issues such as spectrum, infrastructure sharing, taxation and mobile financial services.

Prior to the GSMA, Mortimer spent ten years at Vodacom South Africa where he was responsible for all technical regulatory matters, and for policy support to Vodacom’s operating companies in Lesotho, Mozambique, Tanzania and Democratic Republic of Congo. Over this period, he played an instrumental role in helping the mobile industry secure digital dividend spectrum at the 2007 and 2012 UN World Radiocommunication Conferences.

Before joining the private sector, Mortimer spent six years in engineering and management positions at the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa.

Mortimer has an MSc in telecommunications engineering from the Moscow Technical University of Communications and Informatics, and an MBA from the University of Pretoria. He is registered with the Engineering Council of South Africa, is a Fellow of the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers and is also a member of the Institute of Directors of Southern Africa.

Cesar Gutierrez joined Huawei in November 2016 as head of Wireless Regulatory Policy for Africa and Middle East. He leads on key initiatives for Africa such as the identification of the 3300 – 3400 MHz band for mobile and the work in preparation of the WRC19. Previously, Cesar was a Senior Policy Advisor with the Ofcom in the UK where he was involved in several spectrum and consumer policy projects, notably the policy and the implementation of Ofcom’s TV white spaces programme. Before, Cesar was with the European Telecommunications Standards Institute where he was part of the leadership team of 3GPP Radio Access Network group. He had a key role in a number of high profile initiatives, such as the kick off of LTE specification in 3GPP. Cesar has a degree in Telecommunications Engineering from the Polytechnics University of Madrid, and a Master degree in Business Administration from the University of Oxford.

Kezias Mwale is Radiocommunications Coordinator at African Telecommunications Union.  He started his spectrum management career as a junior engineer in 2003 at the Zambia ICT Authority, rising to manager spectrum management in 2010 – a position he held until his appointment by the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) as a Radiocommunications Coordinator in 2012. He has been a keen and active contributor to national, regional and international spectrum management successes including development of the first Zambian national spectrum plan, the SADC spectrum plan, the GE-06 Conference during which he was appointed one of the planning experts for Eastern and Southern Africa. He has immensely contributed to the current improved status of Radiocommunications affairs of ATU.

Mr Mwale holds an MSc in Broadband and Mobile Communications with distinction from the University of Kent (2008), and an MBA from the University of Nicosia (2017).

More information available shortly.

Mr. Nikolai Vassiliev is the Chief, Terrestrial Services Department in the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

He obtained his Master’s degree in radiocommunications in 1985 and MBA in management in 19992. From 1985 to 1996 he worked at different positions for the Russian Ministry of Telecommunications. In 1996 joined the ITU.

His current responsibilities cover the international management of frequency resource for terrestrial radiocommunications, including maritime, aeronautical, mobile, etc., and technical studies of emerging communication technologies, such as 5G, IoT and Intelligent Transport Systems.

Dr. Bienvenu Agbokponto Soglo is the Director, Government Affairs Africa & IGA CTO Liaison, and a Principal Engineer at Intel Corporation. In his current role, Dr Agbokponto Soglo is responsible for developing policy strategies and advocating for favourable government policies, regulations, and standards to support Intel’s business interests in Africa. He leads the policy and government affairs work in Africa in areas such as 5G, broadband, artificial intelligence, privacy and security and other digital transformation policies. In addition, he also leads engagements with Universities, Research Institutions, NGOs in the International Government Affairs (IGA) group; for research focused on emerging technologies and projects/initiatives at the intersection of policy and technology.

He has more than 17 years’ experience and a strong track record working in the ICT and telecommunication industry with expertise in mobile telecommunication technologies, global and regional spectrum policy, broadband strategy, corporate social responsibility, as well as governmental ICT policies. Before joining Intel Corporation in 2018, Dr Agbokponto Soglo worked at Qualcomm for more than 10 years, first as Staff Engineer then as Government Affairs Director for West and Central Africa. Prior to that, he worked at Huawei Technologies as Wireless Product Manager.

He has published several technical papers on Network Control Systems in International Journals and Conferences, including in the European Journal of Control. He has also presented at many international forums, conferences and meetings across the globe including at the WTO and the ITU; and held leadership positions in ITU-R Working Party 5D; and is the Chair of the GSA ATU Spectrum team.

Dr. Agbokponto Soglo holds a Ph.D. degree in Control Science & Engineering from Beijing Tsinghua University (2005), an MSc in Control Theory & Control Engineering from Dalian University of Technology (2002), and a BSc in Automatic Control from Dalian Maritime University (1999), China. He has excellent proficiency in English, French and Mandarin.

Peng serves as the Vice-President of Policy & Regulatory at GSOA, where he spearheads advocacy efforts in critical policy and regulatory domains, including spectrum management, market access, and national policy initiatives. With a rich background in the telecommunications sector and expertise across mobile and satellite industries, he’s been advising governments and telecom industry globally.

Before joining GSOA, Peng played a pivotal role at Eutelsat OneWeb in shaping international regulatory and policy frameworks, focusing on delivering satellite licensing structures to accommodate Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations, and tailoring satellite regulatory procedure during WRC-23.

Prior to this, at GSMA, Peng was responsible for the global campaign aimed at optimizing spectrum licensing conditions for mobile operators worldwide. He led a diverse team of policy experts across developing markets, engaging policymakers and regulators to advocate for industry best practices in telecom policy.

Peng holds a Master’s degree in Telecommunication from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology of Lausanne, complemented by an Executive MBA from the London Business School. Peng is fluent in English, Mandarin, and French.