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ICT policy proposals spell out an attempt to nationalise assets
Gideon Bouwer interrogates who benefits from the country’s proposed information and communications technology (ICT) policy?
Who benefits from the country’s proposed information and communications technology (ICT) policy? Is it "radical economic transformation" or something that will benefit "white capital"? The introduction to the national integrated ICT policy white paper refers to the National Development Plan 2030: "By 2030, ICT will underpin the development of a dynamic and connected information society and a vibrant knowledge economy that is more inclusive and prosperous." Seemingly, it is geared to achieve an "inclusive and prosperous society" where "opportunity is determined not by birth but by ability, education and hard work". All the usual rhetoric is regurgitated. But who is being branded the evil industrial giant stepping on the underprivileged and downtrodden? The lowest black economic empowerment (BEE) rating of the major cellphone companies is level 3, which mounts to a 110% procurement recognition level. The largest of those companies have BEE ratings of level 2, amounting to a procure...
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