ICASA Launches Inquiry into New Individual Electronic Communications Licences
The move, published in Government Gazette Notice 3644 of 2025, aims to assess the demand, need, and potential impact of issuing new licences within South Africa’s electronic communications sector.
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) has announced its intention to conduct an inquiry into new Individual Electronic Communications Network Service (I-ECNS) licences. The move, published in Government Gazette Notice 3644 of 2025, aims to assess the demand, need, and potential impact of issuing new licences within South Africa’s electronic communications sector.
The inquiry follows a policy direction from the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, under the Electronic Communications Act (ECA), and seeks to determine whether new I-ECNS licences would enhance competition, promote universal access to electronic communications, and align with sector objectives. ICASA also intends to evaluate whether the benefits of issuing new licences outweigh costs, including regulatory compliance and environmental considerations.
The inquiry will proceed in multiple phases, beginning with the publication of a questionnaire for stakeholders to submit written responses within 45 working days. Subsequent stages include the publication of a discussion document, public hearings, and the eventual release of a findings document within 90 days of the inquiry’s conclusion. Stakeholders may request confidentiality for submitted information where appropriate.
ICASA noted that the current secondary market for I-ECNS and I-ECS licences has shown high purchase prices, potential barriers to entry for smaller operators, and limited transfers, prompting the Authority to consider whether issuing new licences would improve market accessibility. As of October 31, 2025, a total of 470 I-ECNS and 458 I-ECS licences had been issued, with 171 transfers of ownership and control approved since 2008/09.
The inquiry will also explore the potential contribution of new licences to universal service obligations, competition, infrastructure rollout, technological innovation, and broader social and economic benefits. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide insights, numerical data, and evidence to support the Authority’s review of the licensing framework.
All submissions are to be directed to Mr. Peter Mailula, Project Manager, at ICASA, either via email or hand delivery, with supporting data provided electronically where applicable. The inquiry represents ICASA’s continued effort to ensure a competitive, inclusive, and efficient electronic communications sector in South Africa.
