Mobile operator Telkom is not happy with new spectrum auction process announced by the regulator ICASA.
“Telkom notes the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) statement on the publication of the Invitation to Apply (ITA) in respect of the licensing process for the International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) spectrum,” the company said in a statement.
“While Telkom is studying the ITA it is concerned by the separation of the publications of the ITAs and the reasons given by Icasa to separate the licensing process of the Wireless Open Access Network (WOAN).”
As previously reported by TechDailyPost, Icasa was originally set to hold the spectrum auction in March this year, but the process was delayed by legal action brought by Telkom, MTN, and E-tv owner eMedia.
Telkom raised a number of concerns, it says some of the spectrum was still occupied by TV broadcasters because of South Africa’s slow digital migration process.
Telkom regulatory affairs head Siyabonga Mahlangu said, “we hope that a further reading of the published ITA will reflect that the ITA has been designed to substantively deliver much-needed competition in the sector and lower prices for consumers.”
“The expected yield of R8 Billion from the licensing process should be an enabler for further economic growth,” Mahlangu stated.
“Icasa has a duty to use the consultation process to design ITAs that promote competition, attract foreign direct investment and set South Africa up to participate effectively in the digital economy,” he adds.
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