Good old Telkom seems ready to play with any new kids on the block. The mobile operator is opening to mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs).
Telkom is finally going to permit MVNOs to use its extensive network. It says this is to enhance “the much-needed competition in the telecoms space” and to “enable them to deliver their propositions to selected target markets effectively.”
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MVNO are network operators that use infrastructure belonging to bigger network operators (in this case Telkom). Though they don’t have their own infrastructure, they offer pretty much the same services that you’d get from major service providers like MTN, Vodacom, Cell C, and Telkom.
Some of the popular ones in South Africa include PnP Mobile, Standard Bank Mobile, FNB Connect, Capitec Connect, and Shoprite K’nect.
“We believe that such partnerships will help create jobs, create a path into the industry for smaller players, and ultimately contribute to the growth of our digital economy,” said Lunga Siyo, consumer and small business CEO at Telkom.
Telkom says the partnerships will be in line with ICASA’s spectrum-license requirements.
“The MVNO partnerships are in line with spectrum-license requirements set by ICASA to benefit historically disadvantaged groups,” it added.
The first MNVO is set to live this year. No exact dates were provided by the network provider.