Proposed ICASA policy directive reopens controversy over Telecom ownership

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Published Dec 20, 2025

This afternoon, the spotlight is firmly on the telecommunications sector. A move by Communications Minister Solly Malatsi, directing ICASA to consider equity equivalent investment programmes in place of the long-standing 30% local ownership rule, has reignited fierce debate and reopened the contentious question of Starlink's entry into South Africa.The ANC, the EFF, and Parliament's Portfolio Committee say this weakens transformation and undermines the hard-won gains of Black Economic Empowerment.

The Presidency says the Minister is acting within the law. And the regulator, ICASA, now sits at the centre of it all tasked with interpreting policy, applying legislation, and navigating rising political pressure.

So what does this directive really mean for the industry?

And how do we balance investment, innovation, transformation, and fairness in a fast-moving digital economy?

To help us unpack this, we are joined by Mudiwa Gavaza, Tech Journalist.

Mudiwa, welcome and thank you for being with us.

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