The Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, has welcomed amendments to the End-User and Subscriber Service Charter Regulations EUSSC, recently gazetted by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa ICASA. The updated regulations aim to strengthen consumer protection and make communication services more affordable and accessible.
Key provisions allow data purchased by consumers to be rolled over and provide users with the option to transfer unused data, ensuring greater flexibility and value for consumers. The regulations also support broader government efforts to enhance access to digital services and enable meaningful participation in South Africa's digital economy.
Minister Malatsi highlighted the importance of reducing data costs, which can help households, learners, and small businesses utilize the internet more productively. Measures include reducing taxes on smart devices, encouraging competition and innovation, streamlining access to government infrastructure, and promoting infrastructure-sharing to lower network build costs.