Study to help Angola choose more advantageous digital systems

Angola, Luanda  – Angola has conducted a study on the technical options, risks and advantages offered by the various digital systems in order to decide on which to choose in the process of migration from the analog into the digital in the southern Africa Development Community (SADC) region until 2013. This was said Tuesday in Luanda by the minister of Telecommunications and Information Technologies, Jose Carvalho da Rocha.The minister was speaking at the opening of the SADC meeting on digital radio broadcasting.He said the study has focused on theoretical, practical, technical and commercial aspects, including the medium and long term effects of the process on the national economy and in the integration of a global industry in which Angola would want to participate. According to the minister, it is the Government’s intention to have a smooth and safe  process of  migration that enables the country to meet its regional and international commitments.He said that to this end a special multi-sectoral commission was appointed in 2009 to secure a smooth transition. José Carvalho da Rocha said as well Angola is in a position to share its experience with the countries of the region so that together they can overcome the difficulties of the process seen as very complex. The official appealed to the participants to place all their knowledge at the disposal of SADC so the regional organisation has the opportunity to discuss the matters clearly and in depth, to the benefit of the populations. He also spoke of the need for the countries to share experiences so that the region sets safe and firm steps ahead.However, he wondered whether all member countries will be in a position to meet the deadline for the implementation of the digital broadcasting technology until 2013 as planned in the region. The three-day event is being attended by delegates from SADC member countries, representatives of the Angolan Government, technicians from the Ministry of Telecommunications and Information Technologies and managers of private companies.