MNP pushed back to November

Johannesburg, 14 Sept 2006

Mobile number portability (MNP) - allowing people to switch cellular networks without losing their phone number - will now only be implemented on 10 November, following a second delay granted by the Independent Communications Authority of SA (ICASA).

In a statement this morning, the regulator argues the delays have been granted on technical grounds: "The successful implementation of mobile number portability depends on various factors, including conducting tests on the new system. It is imperative that all stops are pulled to ensure that all systems are in place and ready for the launch."

Testing of the Saab-Grintek porting system`s secure interfaces and digital certificates by the nine service providers and three network operators has taken longer than expected, according to Mike Falconer, spokesman for the steering committee and Cell C`s carrier relations senior manager.

However, he assures consumers there will be no further implementation date revisions, saying: "There can`t be a third delay - we will fight tooth and nail to ensure there are no more delays."

In May, the implementation date was set for July, and was subsequently set back to 18 September.

ICASA will hold a press conference today to further explain its reasons for granting the cellular operators an extension.

Sajeed Sacranie, Virgin Mobile CEO, says Virgin is disappointed by ICASA`s MNP postponement. MNP may not have a huge immediate impact, he says, but it is going to be a catalyst in encouraging competition and telecoms uptake.