Policy directive changes and how it will impact the ICT industry

The Talking Point

The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies recently gazetted a policy directive that has sparked nationwide debate on Starlink, softening regulatory requirements for international companies and transformation. The directive relates to equity equivalent investment programmes in the ICT sector, potentially impacting how foreign companies like Starlink operate in South Africa. The issue is particularly contentious given the history of BBBEE compliance expectations, the compliance of several US-based companies to these strict rules and the role of ICASA as the sector regulator.

Major telecommunications operators in South Africa are reportedly studying the implications of the draft directive. According to a recent TimesLIVE article, these companies are concerned about the uneven playing field the directive might create. This week, Minister Solly Malatsi will appear before Parliament’s Communications and Digital Technologies to clarify how this directive aligns with section 9(2)(b) of the Electronic Communications Act 36 of 2005. To help us unpack this discussion further and preview some of the important questions that must be answered by the Ministry, we are joined by…

Guest: Nomvuyiso Batyi - Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Communications and Technology South Africa

Guest: Sandile Swana - Governance Expert