The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) has published a questionnaire on the proposed assignment of additional high-demand radio frequency spectrum.
Further high-demand spectrum licensing gains momentum
The notice signals increased regulatory momentum towards the licensing of additional high-demand spectrum in South Africa. ICASA describes the questionnaire as the first step in developing an Information Memorandum, which is expected to be followed by an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
ICASA is considering assigning spectrum across several International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) bands, including spectrum formerly reserved for the now withdrawn Wireless Open Access Network (WOAN).
Although the timing, spectrum package and assignment methodology have not yet been determined, the notice indicates that ICASA has moved beyond general policy consideration and is actively preparing a further high-demand spectrum licensing process.
How ICASA’s spectrum licensing process will work
ICASA states that the licensing process will be conducted in accordance with Regulation 7 of the Radio Frequency Spectrum Regulations, 2015, read with section 31(3)(a) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2005.
This process entails the publication of an ITA containing key information about the proposed spectrum assignment. This would ordinarily include:
- the application requirements and submission process;
- applicable application fees;
- qualification criteria; and
- the method by which the spectrum will be assigned.
The ITA would also set out whether ICASA intends to use an auction, a comparative selection process or another permissible spectrum-assignment method.
Deadline for submissions to ICASA
Interested parties must submit their responses to ICASA’s high-demand spectrum questionnaire by 16h00 on Monday, 30 November 2026.
