The world of communications is progressing rapidly with new and improved technology being launched each and every day. The various networks for different communications media are getting more and more congested as the demand for communication platforms increases.
Infrastructure is not only getting more advanced, but it is getting more visible and closer to us as we see towers or cables getting set up daily. Everyone is on either a landline, cell phone or laptop, and are either watching TV or listening to the radio in their spare time.
More often than not, we are on most or all of these platforms at the same time. As the world becomes a global village and we ride this information wave, everyone wants to take home the spoils of this revolution and it could very well be survival of the fittest in this industry.
With this much activity knowing who your “go to guy” is when you need them can be the difference between convenience, efficiency and resolution, and on the other hand, anxiety, frustration and demoralisation.
Whether you are a business entity dealing in the industry, or the consumer at the receiving end of the goods and services, you want to know that the industry is well regulated and that you will receive quality product and the best value for your money.
Unforeseen circumstances can also bring about disagreements and disputes, and you want to be safe in the knowledge that a fair and unbiased body will heed your cries.
It’s no wonder then, that one can ask, ‘who is the umpire in this seemingly chaotic world of communications?’
Enter BOCRA.
The Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) is the regulatory body for the communications industry in the country, tasked with ensuring that the industry runs efficiently, fairly, ethically, innovatively and legally.
Under the BOCRA mandate are the four communications platforms of broadband, broadcasting, data and post. BOCRA ensures that international best practice is adhered to within the communications industry so that all Batswana can benefit. It manages an efficient system through which all parties play by the rules and no one gets the short end of the stick. The Authority deals with issues such as education and protection of consumers, lobbying on issues of policy, regulating industry tariffs as well as managing the efficient use of the radio frequency spectrum and postal services in the country.
This in turn guarantees that all parties relevant to the industry are not only given the responsibility of maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency, but that they receive excellent returns on their investment.
While you sit at home watching your favourite show on television, or you are making that all important oversees phone call, or you receive that letter or post card you have long been waiting for you can rest assured there is an entity out there that will always be a champion for better quality services so that you can best stay connected with the people and things you love most.
