The benefits of increasing internet access and broadband connectivity have been estimated and measured by several studies. The World Bank estimates that expanding internet access to 75% of the population across developing countries could add USD 2 trillion to GDP and create 140 million new jobs. Thus, showing that removing regulatory barriers to facilitate the provision of connectivity services can contribute to several public policy objectives.
Over the last three decades, the liberalisation of telecommunications services has shown that it is citizens who ultimately bear the cost of regulatory burdens and barriers. Services become less affordable, there is less competition, and thus less coverage, quality, and variety in the available services. Likewise, more pressure is placed on universal access and service schemes that ensure vital access to connectivity, without which citizens are unable to access or benefit from the digital economy, further widening social and economic gaps.
Against this backdrop, the recent announcements by the South African Ministry of Communications and Digital Technologies are a positive signal, paving the way for reducing existing regulatory barriers for the provision of connectivity services, while balancing the need to ensure national public policy objectives.
Specifically, the Ministry has issued two proposed public policy directions for comments. The first instructs the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) to assess the need for new electronic communications network services licences and their potential impact on universal access and benefits in South Africa. The second public policy direction instructs ICASA to evaluate the conditions to align its existing regulation with the Amended Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) ICT Sector Code, allowing compliance with a broader range of economic empowerment measures that transcend ownership limitations. Interested parties have 30 working days to provide written comments on each of the proposed policy directions.
These developments are expected to enable new opportunities for connectivity and empowerment. Access Partnership helps clients navigate the regulatory complexities and landscapes for satellite, telecommunications, and technology through expert analysis and strategic guidance. We work with policymakers and businesses to inform and shape policy and regulatory frameworks, enabling clients to adapt to them effectively. To find out more about how our Regulatory Strategy & Market Access experts and local expert advisor can help you, or for support to submit a contribution to the consultation, please contact Juliana Ramirez [email protected] and Peter Zimri [email protected].
