Here’s a rewritten version of the content with a more provocative tone:
ICASA Chairperson Mothibi Ramusi: The Regulator’s Dilemma
As the world speeds into the digital age, South Africa’s telecommunications regulator, ICASA, is stuck in neutral. Despite the rapid evolution of technology, the authority remains rooted in outdated policies and frameworks. And at the heart of the issue is Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet constellation, which has yet to receive a formal application to operate in the country.
In an exclusive interview with ITWeb TV, ICASA Chairperson Mothibi Ramusi revealed that the authority has yet to receive an application from Starlink, despite the company’s plans to launch its services in South Africa. "Personally, since I’ve joined, I haven’t seen a document in the chairman’s office that says here is an application [from Starlink]," he said.
But why is ICASA so slow to react? The answer lies in the authority’s outdated licensing regime, which is as rigid as a fossilized dinosaur. "Our licensing process is fairly clear, but one will just have to conform to the requirements," Ramusi said, hinting that Starlink may need to jump through hoops to get its application approved.
And then there’s the issue of low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites, which Ramusi described as "not a new phenomenon." But despite the growing popularity of LEOs, ICASA is still stuck in the Stone Age, unable to adapt to the changing landscape. "You need to co-ordinate, especially when you talk spectrum," he said, revealing the authority’s lack of understanding of the technology.
But ICASA is not just a relic of the past; it’s also a major obstacle to progress. The authority’s inability to adapt to changing technologies is stifling innovation and holding back the country’s digital development. "The concept of LEO satellites is something that we will embrace as an authority for now," Ramusi said, but it’s too little, too late.
As the world moves at lightning speed, ICASA is stuck in the slow lane. It’s time for the authority to shake off its outdated policies and frameworks and join the 21st century. Until then, South Africa’s digital development will remain stuck in neutral.
