broadband affordability and access, it is important to have clear definitions and targets for affordability. The initial definition is based on analysis developed by the Alliance for Affordable Internet4 which proposes that 1GB of mobile prepaid data should cost at most 2% of average monthly per capita income (or “1 for 2” target). At this level, low-income groups are more likely to be able to afford an entry-level mobile data plan. 5.3.2 Summary of Strategies 1. Encourage supply of initiatives such as infrastructure availability, particularly last mile connectivity access is pervasive across the country; 2. Ensure good competition rules are set up by the regulator to promote affordable services and to support the entry of Liberian businesses into the access market; 3. Set and review broadband penetration targets to gauge progress; 4. Promote demand-side services in both the private and public sector with strong emphasis on E-government services and Business process outsourcing (BPO); 5. Encourage infrastructure sharing; 6. Create incentives to service providers (both mobile and fixed) to ensure faster roll out of services; 7. Use Universal Access funds to plug gaps in voice and broadband supply, as well as to support demand side initiatives, including the provision of electricity where needed to support connectivity requirements; 8. Facilitate the smooth deployment of new technologies to promote broadband in particular rural broadband. 5.4 Radio Spectrum Management Radio spectrum consists of the electromagnetic frequencies which are used for communication signals travelling through the air. Radio spectrum is a natural resource that will deplete when used and will be wasted if used inefficiently. Therefore, the management of this resource is critical if it is to be used to further Liberia’s ICT and ultimately national development goals. Spectrum management has four key functions. They are spectrum planning, spectrum engineering, spectrum authorization and spectrum monitoring. Spectrum management should be carried out in a transparent and evidence-based manner. 5.4.1 Strategy to Implement Radio Spectrum Management LTA will continue to plan and manage Liberia’s spectrum in an efficient and effective way, developing regulations as needed to guide its allocation, assignment, and to monitor its use. Identifying frequencies for mobile broadband networks resulting from the migration to digital TV broadcasting is one way to ensure the efficient management of national spectrum. LTA will provide for spectrum needs in broadcast, air navigation, marine, weather reporting and health (x-ray), among others. LTA will also ensure that all radio frequencies set aside by ITU, such as the Search and Rescue frequency, the Industrial Scientific and Medical (ISM) Band and other such bands allocated for specified programs under ITU regulations are dedicated for those A4AI (2016) “Redefining Broadband Affordability: Adopting a "1 for 2" Target to Enable Universal, Affordable Access. 4 35

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