South Africa's Intenet Service Provider Association unveils its new board, welcomes fresh members

South Africa’s Internet Service Providers Association (ISPA) has announced its new board members, who will guide the organization for the next three years. Two new members, Ntokozo Mbonani and Doreen Mokoena, are joining the board for the first time.

“ISPA looks forward to new ideas and fresh perspectives over the coming term,” the association stated.

The board now has one less member, with ISPA thanking outgoing members Cheryl Dinkelmann, Gideon le Grange, and André van der Walt for their contributions.

“Their tenure as ISPA board members leaves the Internet in South Africa stronger,” ISPA said.

Several existing board members, including Dave Gale, Jerry Maleka, and Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, have been reelected. Sasha Booth-Beharilal will continue as chairperson, with Enzio von Diest serving as deputy chairperson.

“The new Board members are elected to serve a three-year term. Board members are eligible to serve for a maximum of six consecutive years, and then become ineligible for further reappointment until one year has passed,” ISPA explained.

ISPA highlighted its respected role in advising South African policymakers on Information and Communications Technology (ICT). It also welcomed the new board members and expressed confidence in their ability to advance the Internet in South Africa.

Looking ahead, ISPA aims to apply lessons from the fixed data market to the mobile data market, which most South Africans use for Internet access. The board plans to expand its membership to include more mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs), which ISPA views as a type of Internet Service Provider.

ISPA emphasized its position as one of South Africa’s largest Internet-related organizations, representing over 230 members. It is also the only Internet-focused representative body officially recognized by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies.

“ISPA advocates for an open, free, and competitive Internet landscape and represents a diverse group of over 230 Internet organisations.”