South Africa plans to commission a study early next year to assess the viability of a third cellular telephone operation, officials said. The study is likely to take four to six months, after which the country’s new telecommunications regulator will give a view on whether a third license should be granted, said Post & Telecommunications minister Jay Naidoo. State utility Telkom said in its 1996 report the total number of subscribers had increased by more than 50% in the year to March 31. Current market leader is Vodacom Pty Ltd, a joint venture between Telkom and Vodafone Plc. The second operator is MTN, representing other local interests partnered by Cable & Wireless Plc.
