SA's mobile networks have yet to be fined for poor-quality network coverage by the Independent Communications Authority of SA (ICASA), but little transparency exists in the monitoring process, argue analysts.
The End-User and Subscriber Service Charter regulations, finalised in July 2009, call for operators to maintain 95% network service availability over a period of six months and an average of 3% or lower in connectivity failure rate. Failure to do so is supposed to result in a R500 000 fine.
However, ICASA has confirmed that to date no fines have been issued, saying it is continuously monitoring the mobile networks for adherence to the regulations.
“The authority is monitoring the quality of networks in terms of the regulations. The ICASA council met with mobile operators last year to address the issues of poor network standards and operators committed to improving these standards,” explains ICASA spokesperson Paseka Maleka.
According to Maleka, the authority follows the complaint handling process in these matters. “In terms of our complaints handling processes, complaints/matters relating to networks, quality of service, are investigated and we usually engage the licensee, before these matters are referred to the Complaints and Compliance Committee (CCC) for adjudication.
“This is the committee that has the powers to recommend fines or penalties after a formal hearing process has taken place. So far, no matter relating to non-compliance with these regulations has been referred to CCC for hearing and adjudication,” he continues.
These statements are in line with claims by the country's mobile operators that they are in full compliance with the regulations.
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