But first they must get new licences.

The licence conversion process mandated by the recently promulgated Electronic Communications Act (EC Act) will have far-reaching consequences. The regulator, Icasa, said last month it was on track to publish regulations to facilitate the conversions by 29 August.

The regulations will map out the process, as well as conveying the schedule that will be followed, says Icasa councillor Zolisa Masiza. The law required Icasa to do so within 30 days of its promulgation on 19 July.