The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) on Monday announced it will delay the announcement of qualified bidders upcoming spectrum auction.
“The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa advises stakeholders that the announcement of qualified bidders in terms of the International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) Invitation to Apply (ITA) of 2 October 2020 has been moved from the initial date of 22 February 2021 to 23 March 2021.”
This, therefore, means that the auction phase – which comprises, amongst others, the
bidder seminar, the mock auction and the actual auction – will commence by 31
March 2021, said ICASA.
One of the critical milestones in this regard is the conclusion of a contract with the
external and independent Auctioneer who will be overseeing and managing the entire
auction process.
“The conclusion of a contract and appointment of the service provider for the auction remains a key factor, and we remain confident that we are not off the track but in a better position to complete the licensing of high demand spectrum”, says ICASA Chairperson, Dr Keabetswe Modimoeng.
ICASA wouldn’t be drawn into disclosing the name of the auctioneers.
“Unfortunately, we are unable to divulge the details of the auctioneer at this stage,” ICASA spokesperson Paseka Maleka told TechFinancials.
Furthermore, Dr Modimoeng assures all stakeholders that ICASA carries the aspirations of the entire nation and will make sure that the process is concluded with the necessary speed but without untoward haste.
“We indeed assure all stakeholders of our steadfast commitment towards public interest, and hereby give certainty that the licensing of high demand spectrum is imminent”, concludes Dr Modimoeng.
