Telecommunications
Telecommunications is the industry concerned with the transmission of information over distances using electronic means, including voice, data, video and internet services. The sector encompasses fixed-line and mobile telephony, broadband internet, satellite communications, fibre-optic networks and emerging technologies such as 5G. Telecommunications infrastructure forms the backbone of modern economies, enabling commerce, government services, education and social connectivity. Key players include network operators, equipment manufacturers, tower companies and service providers. The industry is characterised by high capital expenditure requirements for network deployment and maintenance, regulatory oversight of spectrum allocation and licensing, and rapid technological evolution. Revenue streams include subscription fees, data charges, interconnection fees and value-added services. In Africa, mobile telecommunications has been a transformative force, with mobile penetration often exceeding fixed-line infrastructure and enabling mobile money, e-commerce and digital financial services. The sector faces ongoing challenges including spectrum availability, infrastructure sharing, cybersecurity threats and the need for continuous investment to meet growing data demand. Telecommunications is increasingly converging with information technology, media and entertainment sectors, creating integrated digital ecosystems. The rollout of next-generation networks and the expansion of rural connectivity remain strategic priorities across developing markets.
Telecommunications Updates
Communications Committee Chairperson welcomes Telkom's inspiring financial performance
3rd June 2026 The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies, Ms Khusela Sangoni Diko, welcomes Telkom’s inspiring... →
Can South Africa afford to keep Starlink out?
By: ISS, Institute for Security Studies 2nd June 2026 Achieving the country’s ambitious goal of 100% broadband access by 2030 could require a trade-off between politics and connectivity. Starlink – the... →
From policy direction to regulation: Is South Africa finally achieving rapid deployment?
21st May 2026 In September 2024, we published an article examining whether Government was aligned in its approach to enabling the rapid deployment of electronic... →
Ramaphosa calls for 'sustained effort' to bridge SA's investment-to-growth gap 
By: Thabi Shomolekae 18th May 2026 President Cyril Ramaphosa on Monday emphasised that transforming investment pledges into large-scale growth and job creation takes time, noting... →
Investment conferences are turning commitments into jobs
18th May 2026 Dear Fellow South African, Since the start of this year, we have held a series of high-profile engagements with domestic and international... →
Communications Committee Chairperson welcomes ICASA decision to uphold the Electronic Communications Act
14th May 2026 The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies, Ms Khusela Sangoni Diko, has welcomed and fully supported... →
Musk row shows gap with Ramaphosa in South Africa equity rules
By: Bloomberg 15th April 2026 President Cyril Ramaphosa said billionaire Elon Musk could use equity-equivalence programmes to meet South Africa’s racial-equity rules and roll... →
Minister Leon Schreiber welcomes withdrawal of ACT court application against Online Verification Service fee corrections
15th April 2026 The Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, has welcomed a decision by the Association of Comms and Technology (ACT) to withdraw its court... →
Satellite Regulation in Africa: Aligning Global Frameworks with National Policy Priorities
31st March 2026 In Africa, where satellite connectivity is increasingly relevant to digital infrastructure strategies, the central policy question is not simply... →
Direct-to-Device Satellite Connectivity: Regulatory Implications for Africa’s Digital Future
31st March 2026 Direct-to-device (“D2D”) satellite connectivity is emerging as one of the most consequential developments in the global telecommunications... →
 |
 |
1 |
2 |  |
 |
