The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) today announced it has received six applications in respect of the International Mobile Telecommunications spectrum licensing process.
ICASA said this marks an important and critical step towards the auctioning of high-demand spectrum in March 2022.
The following applications were received by the closing date and time, in the order of submission:
1. Cell C
2. MTN
3. Vodacom
4. Telkom
5. Rain Networks
6. Liquid Telecoms
In terms of the published timetable for this licensing process, ICASA said it will announce the qualified bidders on 21 February 2022.
ICASA said this will mark the next critical milestone in the effort of the authority to finally release this much-needed economic stimulus input.
The Chairperson of ICASA, Dr Keabetswe Modimoeng expressed his utmost gratitude to all applicants, and encouraged them to continue supporting this process until its completion.
“We thank all applicants for participating in the process. We intend to finally see the licensing of high-demand spectrum through to completion to ensure that all South Africans have access to a wide range of communications services, including data services, at affordable prices,” says Dr Modimoeng.
Furthermore, the Chairperson urges all role players to align their interests with their patriotic spirit, and to allow this critical regulatory intervention to be completed.
“We value each milestone in this process, especially considering the mammoth legal challenges we have encountered along the way. Ultimately, public interest should prevail, as this process will yield positive spinoffs for the industry and society at large,” concludes Dr Modimoeng.
