The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) has mandated partially state-owned network operator Telkom to establish free Wi-Fi hotspots at community centres nationwide.
This directive was outlined in a recent notice released in the Government Gazette, which detailed the project’s requirements. Icasa warned that any failure to meet these requirements could result in Telkom being fined between US$28,802 and US$57,604.
The notice indicated that Icasa is reassessing Telkom’s universal service and access obligations (USAOs) and replacing some with specific connectivity obligations concerning Thusong Service Centres. Previously known as Multipurpose Community Centres, these centres serve as hubs for public access to essential government services and information.
Icasa noted that many Such centres currently lack adequate internet connectivity. They request that Telkom connect 171 Thusong Service Centres nationwide as a solution.
Telkom is required to submit a rollout plan for this initiative, which must receive approval from Icasa. The plan should detail the list of service centres, the technology to be implemented at each location, and targets for connecting a specific number of centres annually. Additionally, it must outline the timeline for connectivity and the approach for quality assurance testing concerning connection speeds.
According to the directive, Telkom has six months from the notice’s publication on 10 October 2025 to begin the connectivity process. Consequently, the first centres should be operational by 10 April 2026, with all centres expected to be connected by October 2028.
“The Licensee must complete the connectivity for all 171 Thusong Service Centres within three years from the start date,” stated Icasa. Furthermore, Telkom must ensure ongoing connectivity at these centres for the entire duration of the licence.
Regarding connectivity specifications, the installed hotspots must deliver a minimum speed of 30Mbps and provide uncapped internet access. Telkom is tasked with the installation duties, which include supplying Wi-Fi routers, cabling, and firewalls, and must resolve any maintenance issues within five working days.
Icasa emphasised that these services must be offered without charge, with usage governed by a fair use policy entailing a daily limit of 300MB and a monthly cap of 2GB per user.
Telkom will be responsible for all initial setup expenses and ongoing costs for software and hardware maintenance throughout the licence period.
To ensure accountability, Icasa has mandated that Telkom submit biannual compliance reports in line with the regulator’s financial year. Due by 30 April and 31 October of each year, these reports must detail the number of connected centres, speed averages, data usage, and associated costs.
Failure to adhere to these regulations could result in fines, with potential penalties ranging from US$28,802 to US$57,604 for non-compliance. Persistent infractions may be escalated to the Complaints and Compliance Committee of Icasa for further action.
