• ICASA to require Telkom to provide free Wi-Fi at 171 centers
• Plan includes 30 Mbps speed, 2 GB monthly cap per user
• Move updates old obligations to align with digital access goals

South Africa’s communications regulator, ICASA, plans to mandate that Telkom, the semi-public telecom operator, provide free Wi-Fi at 171 Thusong Service Centers. These government-run one-stop hubs offer citizens access to essential information and public services. The proposal was published in the government gazette on Tuesday, October 7.

ICASA has set service standards, including a minimum speed of 30 Mbps and unlimited internet access. Telkom will be responsible for supplying and installing routers, firewalls, and cabling, as well as deploying Wi-Fi access points in each center. Individual users will have a daily cap of 300 MB and a monthly limit of 2 GB.

The initiative stems from Telkom’s 1997 Public Switched Telecommunications Service (PSTS) license, which introduced Universal Service and Access Obligations (USAOs), requirements that initially covered basic phone service, payphones, emergency calls, accessibility for users with disabilities, and directory assistance.

ICASA noted that with the rise of mobile telephony and other technological advances, some of Telkom’s older USAOs have become outdated and require revision. Meanwhile, many Thusong centers remain without internet connectivity.

The project aligns with the South African government’s goal of expanding universal internet access as part of its digital transformation strategy. The government recently set aside 710 million rand ($41 million) to continue SA Connect, the national broadband program. Its second phase aims to connect 80% of public institutions, communities, and households to broadband. The first phase served as a pilot, delivering 10 Mbps connections to nearly 970 public institutions.

Isaac K. Kassouwi