South Africa scraps WOAN model, returns spectrum to ICASA

Communications minister Solly Malatsi withdrew the requirement to reserve high-demand spectrum for a single wholesale open access network (WOAN) that was never licensed in seven years. The 700MHz, 800MHz, 2600MHz and 3500MHz bands are now freed for ICASA licensing; ISPA and ACT welcomed the move, while PBICT warns transformation goals lack a replacement.

• WOAN went unlicensed for seven years before the reservation rule was dropped
• 700MHz, 800MHz, 2600MHz and 3500MHz bands freed for ICASA licensing
• ISPA and ACT welcomed the decision, calling it long overdue
• PBICT says abandoning WOAN leaves transformation goals without a substitute