ICASA is inviting applications from infrastructure-based mobile network operators for provisional assignment of the radio frequency spectrum under the new ICT COVID-19 National State of Disaster Regulations, 2021.

After giving notice of its intention in 2019 to review the current Price Cap Regulations for Reserved Postal Services, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA/the Authority) has published the amendments to the Price Cap Regulations for Reserved Postal Services, as well as the Reasons Document.

ICASA is conducting a virtual workshop on the Information Memorandum (IM) for the licensing of the International Mobile Telecommunication (IMT) Spectrum, published on 1 October 2021.

This workshop marks the first step in implementing the truncated timetable and roadmap issued by the Authority for the expedited licensing of the IMT spectrum, also known as high-demand spectrum.

The Authority hereby confirms that it has resolved to oppose the litigation instituted by Telkom to prevent the expiry of the temporary COVID-19 spectrum allocation. ICASA believes that the circumstances and considerations that informed the issuing of the radio frequency spectrum at the onset of the pandemic never contemplated that the spectrum would be licensed on a long-term or semi-permanent basis.

In line with Section 57 of the Electronic Communications Act, the Authority will allocate timeslots for party election broadcasts (PEBs) to ensure fair coverage for all political parties and independent candidates during the election period. The allocation of PEB slots will take place on Friday, 8 October 2021 at Protea Hotel, Midrand from 09h00.

ICASA wishes to advise stakeholders of the truncated timetable and roadmap for the expedited licensing of the International Mobile Telecommunications (“IMT”) spectrum, also known as high-demand spectrum, and the Wireless Open Access Network (“WOAN”) published today and is further consulting stakeholders on key aspects pertaining to this expedited licensing process. See the attached media statement.