ICT veteran Dr Andile Ngcaba says ICASA’s law in its current state cannot drive digital transformation, amid mooted changes for the telecoms regulator.

Latest figures from telecoms regulator ICASA show SA’s smartphone subscriptions at 53.4 million, putting smartphone penetration at 91.2% in 2019.

Amid SA’s faltering economy, the telecoms sector continues to be the cornerstone for growth, with the fibre network and data centre markets expanding rapidly.

Despite the country’s move to alert level three, the telecoms regulator says its staff will continue with the current remote working arrangements until further notice.

The telecommunications regulator highlights the lack of an enabling funding model as one of the potential risks to delivering on its programmes.

The Portfolio Committee on Communications names eight potential candidates to join the ICASA council, with some familiar names making the shortlist.

The regulator looks to finalise the high-demand spectrum licensing process by auction this year as planned, despite COVID-19 restrictions.

The release of emergency spectrum will alleviate pressure on telcos, given the majority of citizens relying on mobile broadband for Internet access during the lockdown.

Amid the surge of social media rumours linking coronavirus to 5G technologies, some platforms have stepped up the fight against the baseless claims.

The authority reviews how it conducts its business, suspends all public hearings, local and international travel.   

Vodacom adheres to the Competition Commission’s recommendations, agreeing to substantially reduce monthly data bundles, saving consumers R2.7 billion.

Parliament’s communications team makes headway in filling the vacancies on the ICASA council, kicking off the interview stage this week.