The Agence ivoirienne de gestion des fréquences radioélectriques (AIGF) is hosting the second edition of the Forum des Radiocommunications (FRC 2026) in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, from September 24 to 26, 2026. The forum, held at the Parc des Expositions d'Abidjan, brings together institutions, experts, operators, technical partners, and media representatives to discuss the deployment of terrestrial and satellite radio networks. The event is taking place on the sidelines of the Africa Space Expo (ASPEX).
The forum's theme, "Déploiement des réseaux radioélectriques terrestres et satellitaires, et exposition aux ondes électromagnétiques : stratégie nationale," reflects the growing importance of radio communication networks in Côte d'Ivoire's digital transformation. According to Abel Djohoré Gbakayoko, president of AIGF's Conseil d'administration, terrestrial and satellite networks are complementary components of this transformation. He emphasized that managing the radio spectrum is crucial for national sovereignty, economic development, and social cohesion.
Dr. Yacouba Coulibaly, director general of AIGF, highlighted the agency's role in planning, allocating, controlling, and monitoring the use of the radio spectrum. This ensures harmonious development of different networks and prevents interference. AIGF also conducts national campaigns to measure exposure to electromagnetic waves, verifying compliance with limit values and providing scientific data to inform the debate on the effects of exposure.
Christiane Yangni-Angaté, president of the Comité d'organisation, stressed the need for efficient, controlled, and sustainable use of the spectrum. During the three-day forum, participants will discuss deploying terrestrial and satellite networks, scientific aspects of electromagnetic waves, installation compliance, and national priorities for radio communications. The event aims to identify key areas and develop a "Déclaration d'Abidjan" to inform Côte d'Ivoire's national radio communication strategy.
The FRC 2026 forum takes place against the backdrop of rapid digital transformation and growing demand for radio spectrum. The convergence of terrestrial and satellite networks can improve coverage in remote areas and enhance digital infrastructure resilience. Satellite solutions can help bridge the gap in underserved regions, supporting national development goals.
The forum's organizers expect participants to share expertise and experiences, ultimately contributing to Côte d'Ivoire's national strategy for radio communications. By bringing together stakeholders from various sectors, the event aims to promote a coordinated approach to managing the radio spectrum and fostering sustainable development.
At the end of the forum, participants are expected to agree on priority areas and adopt the "Déclaration d'Abidjan," which will inform the development of Côte d'Ivoire's national radio communication strategy. This strategy will be crucial in ensuring that the country's growing digital infrastructure is developed in a coordinated and sustainable manner.
Key points
- The forum aims to promote efficient use of the radio spectrum.
- Satellite networks can improve coverage in remote areas.
- The event will inform Côte d'Ivoire's national radio communication strategy.