Analysis of the Policy Dynamics of 5G in South Africa

Speaker: Dikeledi Catherine Mushi

Title: Analysis of the Policy Dynamics of 5G in South Africa

Abstract:
Literature posits that South Africa has published good ICT policies in the past, but these policies have failed to address the digital divide issues. 5G is in its early deployment in South Africa and there are expectations that it will address the digital divide phenomenon. Notwithstanding its capabilities and opportunities to expand digital access, 5G deployment comes with challenges of infrastructure costs, spectrum availability, and security concerns. Literature argues that the success of 5G relies on a compelling strategy by both government and operators to rollout robust and secure broadband infrastructure networks. Using a multimethod backward- and forward-looking qualitative research approach I aim to analyze whether South Africa’s current broadband policies are appropriate to facilitate 5G network infrastructure investment which will result in a ubiquitous deployment of networks, to address the persisting digital divide in South Africa, or whether these policies will mirror the previous policy shortcomings in addressing 5G infrastructure issues.

Speaker Bio: Dikeledi is a policy and regulatory professional with more than 20 years’ experience in the electronic communications (telecoms) industry. She holds a Master in Management ICT Policy and Regulation Degree (cum laude) from the University of Witwatersrand, 2013, an Honours Degree in Industrial Sociology from the University of Pretoria, 1993, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Vista University, 1991. She currently serves as a Council Member at the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), an Executive Directorship role. Dikeledi leads various regulatory projects spanning from quality-of-service regulations, to rapid deployment, numbering resources, digital television broadcasting and postal sector regulations. She also serves on the Complaints and Compliance Committee (CCC), an independent Tribunal of ICASA mandated to investigate, hear, and where appropriate, make findings on all matters referred to it by ICASA.