According to industry reports, in 2025, South African mobile network operators (MNOs) are bracing for a wave of regulatory shifts that could significantly affect their operations. ITWeb recently surveyed these operators to gain insights into the anticipated regulations and key trends observed during the holiday season.
The expansion of 5G technology is propelling the telecommunications industry forward, and companies like MTN are expecting specific changes, especially regarding numbering regulations and pending plans for assigning International Mobile Telecommunications radio frequency spectrum.
MTN remarked, “We foresee the Information Regulator increasing its focus on spam calls and telemarketing.” This follows the recent guidance issued by the regulator, aimed at protecting consumers from unsolicited communications under section 69 of the Protection of Personal Information Act due to a spike in related complaints.
MTN has desired clearer regulations concerning the suspended licensing of the Wholesale Open Access Network (WOAN). The company advocates removing luxury taxes on smartphones to encourage broader adoption of 4G and 5G services.
The government’s pause on WOAN licensing is viewed as a missed opportunity to foster competition in the telecom sector, which is expected to lower data prices. The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa mandates that WOAN applicants should be predominantly owned by South African citizens, with significant stakes held by black and female owners.
MTN underscores the necessity of regulatory certainty to foster sector growth, emphasising that regulations should be grounded in evidence. “We welcome regulatory policies that alleviate the financial burdens on operators, ensuring maximum industry output for consumer benefit.”
Telkom is awaiting the release of amendments to the End-User Subscriber and Service Charter, which may change the rules for data, voice, and SMS roll-over policies. There is also an ongoing inquiry into the licensing framework for satellite services, with potential regulations expected in 2025 to improve coordination between satellite and terrestrial services.
Moreover, Telkom anticipates changes to the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) Regulations, as proposed amendments by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition aim to establish an opt-out register managed by the National Consumer Commission. The company is also analysing the implications of a guidance note from the Information Regulator regarding ethical practices in direct marketing.
Despite improved load-shedding conditions, Telkom reported that vandalism remains a critical operation issue. The company has noted over 400 incidents of sabotage, theft, and attempts during the holiday season and is collaborating with law enforcement to enhance network reliability.
Similarly, MTN faced infrastructure vandalism during the holidays, impacting service and delaying repairs. The MNO is working with local authorities and communities to mitigate these disruptions.
As both companies look ahead to 2025, they hope to continue reducing load-shedding while preparing for possible fluctuations in the energy landscape. MTN emphasised its commitment to investing in backup power solutions, including generators and battery storage, to ensure service continuity during unexpected power outages.
