Vodacom Group CEO Alan Knott-Craig is willing to do his "national service" at the Independent Communications Authority of SA (ICASA), and would be happy to chair the organisation.
Last month, Financial Mail reported the long-time leader of SA's largest cellular operator plans to step down "soon". He had intimated that he would like shareholders Telkom and Vodacom to release him from his contract early.
In a panel discussion yesterday, at Internet Solutions' annual Internetix conference, focus turned to capacity at SA's regulator.
Chaired by Financial Mail associate editor Duncan McLeod, the panel included Knott-Craig, ICASA chairman Paris Mashile, SA Communication Forum and SABC chairman Eddie Funde, MIH CEO of mobile TV platforms Kim Reid, and Internet Solutions CEO Angus MacRobert.
Stealing staff
Mashile admitted the organisation faced challenges in fulfilling its mandate.
"I see quantum changes as we see the onset of new-generation networks. But there are many things we need to consider in this new environment. How are we going to deal with interconnection, tariffs, the local loop and much more? Are we sufficiently resourced to deal with these issues? Certainly not," he said.
"We are speaking to the Department of Communications to deal with this issue. But there are other problems like companies in the industry taking our staff. I think everyone on this panel has an ICASA employee."
Knott-Craig agreed the loss of ICASA personnel to industry was a problem for the regulator, However, he noted it was as important for the regulator to acquire people from the industry who knew the environment, understood the market dynamics and could get up to speed quickly.
ICASA's slow pace was also a major obstacle, added Knott-Craig.
"Our [the industry's] biggest problem is speed. By the time new entrants are able to get operational, the incumbents are entrenched. Our legislative thinking is correct; it is the implementation that is too slow," he said.
"Our regulatory issues are not just about money, it's also about competence. We need people who have industry experience sitting in the regulator. Those with the knowledge need to think about doing their national service in ICASA."
In response, Mashile joked that Knott-Craig would be the next ICASA chairman.
However, Knott-Craig cut audience amusement short, stating: "For the record, I am very happy to do that."
Delegates responded with applause.
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