[3 October 2026] The notice initiating this process has been withdrawn.
Notice of Withdrawal – Inquiry into Affordability
No explanation was provided but it seems likely that ICASA will try again later in the year.
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[7 September 2026] The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) is to conduct an inquiry into the affordability of telecommunications services in South Africa.
According to the notice, the purpose of this exercise is to provide an evidence-based, policy-relevant assessment of the affordability of telecommunications services, identifying structural cost drivers, household expenditure impacts, and potential regulatory or market interventions.
At the same time, at least part of the motivation will be to comply with the requirements of a settlement agreement ICASA entered into with Telkom in respect of litigation which was threatening to derail the 2022 spectrum auction.
The process to be followed:
- Phase 1 – Commencement
- Publication of the above notice and of a questionnaire on the ICASA website
- Deadline for submission of questions of clarity (+10 working days)
- ICASA response to questions of clarity through publication of a briefing note (+10 working days)
- Deadline for written submissions (+45 working days from date of publication of briefing note)
- One-on-one meetings as required
- Phase 2 – Discussion Document
- Deadline for written submissions (+45 working days)
- Phase 3 – Public Hearings
- Phase 4 – Findings Document (+90 working days)
Any communication relating to this inquiry can be sent to affordtelecominquiry@icasa.org.za marked for the attention of the Chairperson (Affordability Market Inquiry).
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