PRETORIA - The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) has granted licences to 18 new community radio stations, marking the successful conclusion of Phase 2 of the Invitation to Pre-Register (ITP-R) licensing process for Community Sound Broadcasting Service (CSBS) and Radio Frequency Spectrum (RFS) licences.

The licensing process, which commenced following the publication of the ITP-R in Government Gazette No. 51727 on 10 December 2024, attracted 93 applications of which 41 were admitted to Phase 1. Of these, 19 applicants progressed to Phase 2 after meeting the pre-registration requirements. Following the final evaluation process, 18 applicants were granted Community Sound Broadcasting Service and Radio Frequency Spectrum licences, while one applicant did not meet the requirements for licensing.

"Community radio plays a critical role in promoting access to information, supporting local development, fostering social cohesion and preserving South Africa's diverse cultures and languages through storytelling. We encourage the newly licensed broadcasters to use these platforms responsibly to serve their communities, amplify local voices and contribute meaningfully to the growth and sustainability of the community broadcasting sector," said Chairperson of the Committee on Sound Broadcasting Services, Councillor Ntombiza Sithole

The successful applicants that have been issued with Community Sound Broadcasting Service and Radio Frequency Spectrum licences are as follows:

ICASA congratulates the 18 newly licensed community broadcasters and looks forward to their contribution to strengthening South Africa's community broadcasting sector.

For all media enquiries, please contact:

Media@icasa.org.za