The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa, commonly known as ICASA, is the regulator responsible for the communications sector, including television, radio and mobile services. One of its key initiatives is the Code for Persons with Disabilities Regulations 2021, which was developed in close consultation with the disability sector, including Retina South Africa.

Published in April 2021, the Code became effective in October 2022. It places legal obligations on broadcasters and mobile network operators to provide accessible services to persons with disabilities.

For visually impaired users, a particularly important requirement is audio description (an additional audio track that describes visual elements on screen, enabling viewers to follow the action and storyline).

By 2026, public broadcasters are required to provide audio description on 6% of applicable programming, while commercial free-to-air channels should be at 3%.

Mobile network operators must offer handsets compatible with screen readers and voice recognition. Their staff in every store must be trained to demonstrate these features, including helping customers set up VoiceOver or TalkBack.

The licensees are required to report annually to ICASA on their progress.

If your television station is not providing the required audio description, or if your local phone shop cannot assist you with setting up VoiceOver or TalkBack on your handset, you should first lodge a complaint with your service provider or licensee. If the matter is not resolved to your satisfaction, you may then send a complaint to ICASA at consumer@icasa.org.za.