10 May 2021

The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) of the US signed a virtual memorandum of understanding agreement that covers the exchange of ideas in the area of telecommunications regulation and policy. 

According to ICASA president Keabetswe Modimoeng, the non-binding agreement “is a momentous collaboration that illustrates the confidence that our global counterparts have in ICASA. This collaboration places the Authority on solid ground to achieve international best practices, cutting-edge regulatory approaches and further validates South Africa’s standing in the global ICT arena.” 

The deal is against a backdrop of American attempts to unite the telecom markets of Europe, Africa and even Asia against Chinese tech giant Huawei. South Africa has always been unwavering in its support for the company. 

ICASA noted that the two regulators have agreed to implement a program of information exchange and technical cooperation in the field of telecommunications and related services and facilities, in accordance with their respective national and international laws, regulations and obligations, and within the framework of their annual budgets and terms.