Ahead of today’s deadline, Zimbabwean nationals who had not acquired documents such as passports and proof of residence feared the prospect off being cut off.
The documents are mandatory to register the sim cards under the Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-Related Information Act (RICA) in June 2009.
Some civil society organisations had called on the government to extend the deadline, for a second time, arguing a high number of Zimbabwean nationals were struggling to obtain the required documents owing to capacity problems at the department of Home Affairs.
Deputy Minister of Communications, Obed Bapela, however dented the hopes of the foreign nationals, ruling out another extension.
“Failure to comply with the deadline will result in SIMs being locked. Those who have not registered will not be able to make or receive calls and will not be able to send SMSes or use data,” he said.
RICA provides for the lawful interception of communications, such as voice and data conversations between persons including phone calls, e-mails and postal services.
Government implemented the law in 2009 to limit crimes committed using cellphones and curb the theft of such devices.
The law requires that anyone who has a SIM card register it by providing a copy of their identity document (or passports in the case of foreign nationals) and proof of residence.
Miriam Dube, a Zimbabwean based in Johannesburg, expressed disappointment.
“I fear I will be cut off as I have not managed to get the necessary papers. I applied for my passport last year but the Ministry of Home Affairs is yet to provide me with one,” she said ahead of the deadline.
Post published in: Africa News