Regulatory Sector

Broadcasting

Regulation of commercial radio and television broadcasting in Botswana, including licensing, local content compliance, and technical standards.

Overview

BOCRA regulates all commercial broadcasting services except state broadcasting. Licensed stations include Yarona FM, Duma FM, and Gabz FM (radio), and eBotswana (TV). A framework for campus radio stations is currently in development.

Broadcasting licences are divided into two categories: System licences (for transmitters and infrastructure) and Service licences (for content and programming). Each category has separate renewal cycles, and operators must maintain compliance with both.

BOCRA enforces local content quotas on all licensed broadcasters to promote Botswana's cultural identity and creative industries. Digital broadcasting specifications have been developed as part of the migration from analogue to digital broadcasting.

Key Facts

Licensed Radio: Yarona FM, Duma FM, Gabz FM
Licensed TV: eBotswana
Licence Types: System & Service
Content Quotas: Local content enforced
Campus Radio: Framework in development

Legal Basis

Communications Regulatory Authority Act, 2012

Broadcasting Act [Cap 72:04] provisions consolidated under the CRA Act.

Responsibilities

What BOCRA Does

Licensing

Issues and manages System licences (infrastructure) and Service licences (content/programming) for all commercial broadcasters.

Local Content Compliance

Monitors and enforces local content quotas per licence conditions to promote Botswana's cultural and creative industries.

Digital Migration

Oversees the transition from analogue to digital broadcasting, developing technical specifications and migration timelines.

Technical Standards

Sets and monitors broadcast signal quality, coverage requirements, and transmission standards for radio and TV.

Content Regulation

Ensures broadcasters comply with content standards, advertising codes, and licence conditions.

Campus Radio Framework

Developing a regulatory framework for campus and community radio stations to expand broadcasting access.