A framework has been established to govern the way in which telecoms and broadcasting operators provide services for people with disabilities.
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) released codes of good practice for the broadcasting and telecoms sectors on Monday. The codes will provide the two sectors with a framework for self-regulation, ICASA councillor Nadia Bulbulia said at a signing ceremony in Sandton this week.
Bulbulia acknowledged the work that the two sectors already do in facilitating communication for the disabled. However, she said she hoped the operators` plans to provide services for the disabled would exceed minimum thresholds outlined by the codes.
Codes supported by industry stakeholders
Bulbulia said the disability codes were developed with the full cooperation of industry stakeholders and organisations that represent people with disabilities. In addition to consultative meetings, the regulator provided opportunities for comment for all stakeholders and the general public. Finally, ICASA and broadcasting and telecommunications operators have ratified the codes, she said.
Representatives from the National Association of Broadcasters, the National Community Radio Forum, M-Net, eTV, Cell C and Vodacom signed the code during the ceremony. The South African Broadcasting Corporation, Telkom, the Second National Operator and MTN have committed to sign the code soon, Bulbulia said.
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