Independent Communications Authority of SA (ICASA) chairman Paris Mashile has done an about-turn on his opinion of the mobile networks' readiness for 2010, saying they will be ready.
In interview this morning, Mashile explained he is convinced the mobile operators will be ready to handle the increased traffic, expected to flood the networks, during the 2010 World Cup.
This contradicts a statement he made last week during a breakfast function, where he expressed his concern over the capacity of the mobile networks.
"I have fears and foreboding for 2010. What happens if there is a serious accident and networks are all blocked? How will networks accommodate for all video messages when people want to capture footage of their favourite players scoring a goal?” he was quoted as saying.
Last week's statement by Mashile followed a series of meetings between the regulator and the mobile networks to investigate a mass of consumer complaints. Mobile customers from around the country criticised the operators for an increase in dropped calls, delayed SMSes and poor access to networks.
ICASA released resolutions made by the networks at those meetings, which included a measure set up by the regulator to monitor network degradation. According to the regulator, the operators promised to publish network information and provide ICASA with quarterly reports on service.
On their toes
Mashile explained this morning that his turnaround came after the network operators approached him with assurances that measures are in place to ensure network quality would be up to standard come the Soccer World Cup.
“In light of what has happened, we did not want to see a repeat of the trouble with the customer complaints. After I made that statement, they came back to me and promised they will be up to the task,” he says.
According to the chairman, the mobile providers know they have an obligation to ensure their networks can handle a massive increase in access. “They have pointed out their difficulties and are taking steps to correct them.”
Mashile notes that last week's comments were also a means to keep the operators on their toes. “They are conscious of the issues at hand and will not be complacent now.”
He adds that the mobile operators will not be given respite if complaints by the consumers escalate. “If the problem becomes an avalanche, as the regulator, certain steps will be taken to correct it.”
Ready to roll
Meanwhile, the operators say concerns over network quality for 2010 are unfounded.
MTN has ploughed billions of rands into the upgrade of its network and the construction of a national fibre network in partnership with Neotel.
The company says these investments will up its capacity for additional traffic over the networks. “MTN is confident it will be able to carry traffic on its network during and after 2010. Due to a successful expansion and an increased investment strategy for the mobile network in 2008 and continued investment in 2009, MTN is already on track to absorb higher market growth,” says Zolisa Masiza, chief corporate officer for MTN SA.
Vodacom is also confident of its ability to handle the tourist traffic on its networks. “Vodacom has invested significant time, resources and funds to ensure its network is capable of handling extensive traffic during the 2010 Soccer World Cup,” explains chief communications officer Dot Field.
“Cell C has made provision in its planning for the additional capacity demand during the 2010 Soccer World Cup,” says Steve Boiles, Cell C's executive head of networks.
“As announced with our annual financial results, Cell C is currently expanding and improving its network. We are confident that with the measures we are implementing on radio, transmission and our core network, Cell C will be able to meet and exceed the demands that are put on our network during the Soccer World Cup 2010.”
The 2010 Local Organising Committee has been working closely with the mobile operators to ensure capacity and access will be at the right levels for next year. “We are working very hard with our partners to ensure the 2010 World Cup is a success and we are confident everything will be in place for the tournament,” it notes.
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