Keynote Speaker

Title:  Shaping Africa’s Regulatory Strategies for Radio Frequency Spectrum in the 5G

Abstract: The fifth-generation (5G) wireless technology represents a transformative shift in connectivity, offering higher speeds, lower latency, and greater capacity to support emerging digital services. However, effective spectrum management and regulatory strategies are critical in ensuring that Africa maximizes the potential of 5G while addressing infrastructure challenges, digital inclusion, and sustainable economic growth.

This keynote will explore how African regulators, policymakers, and industry stakeholders can work together to develop innovative, future-proof regulatory frameworks that will support 5G deployment and foster digital transformation across the continent. It will emphasize the urgent need for African regulators to adopt agile, inclusive, and forward-thinking spectrum policies that will drive economic growth, digital transformation, and innovation in the 5G era. The ICASA Chairperson will call upon governments, regulators, industry leaders, and stakeholders to collaborate in creating an enabling regulatory environment that ensures Africa remains competitive in the global digital economy.

Spectrum is the foundation of Africa’s digital future – let’s shape policies that unlock its full potential!

Bio: Mothibi Glenview Ramusi is a highly influential figure in South Africa’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) policy and regulatory landscape, with over 30 years of experience spanning telecommunications, broadcasting, satellite, and digital transformation. His expertise in spectrum management, regulatory affairs, and public policy has significantly shaped South Africa’s post-1994 telecommunications and broadcasting frameworks.

Currently serving as the Chairperson of the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), Ramusi plays a critical role in overseeing policy implementation, frequency spectrum allocation, and the digital transformation agenda. His leadership extends to bridging the digital divide by advocating for inclusive and equitable access to ICT services, particularly in underserved and rural areas.

His career includes senior roles in both public and private sectors, including Cell C, the National Lotteries Commission, and SATRA (now ICASA). He has been instrumental in developing South Africa’s frequency spectrum policies, shaping industry regulations, and fostering collaborations between government, industry stakeholders, and international regulatory bodies.

Ramusi’s influence extends beyond regulation; he is a strong proponent of ICT for economic development, innovation, and digital inclusion, ensuring that policy and regulatory decisions support technological advancement and sustainable industry growth. His leadership at ICASA is expected to drive forward 5G deployment, spectrum licensing, and regulatory modernization in alignment with global best practices.

With a deep technical background in electronic systems engineering and extensive executive training, Ramusi continues to be a key figure in shaping South Africa’s digital future through progressive ICT policies, strategic regulatory interventions, and industry-wide transformation initiatives.