Parliament passed the Information and Communication Technologies Authority Act in late 2001, effectively creating the ICT Authority which has the status of a body corporate.

Operators who want to start or conduct telecom operations must apply to the ICT Authority for a licence. The ICT Authority is also in charge of the Mauritian numbering plan and allocates number resources to telecom operators.

With the radio frequency being a limited natural resource, frequencies must be allocated fairly among those who apply. The authority is also empowered to investigate cases of radio interference.

The ICT Authority has, among other functions, to act as the Controller of Certification Authorities (CCA). The Controller of Certifying Authorities as the “Root” Authority certifies the technologies, infrastructure and practices of all the Certifying Authorities licensed to issue Digital Signature Certificates

It is also responsible for protecting consumers of telecommunication services.

Values

• Professionalism: to demonstrate high-level professionalism in our day-to-day initiatives in relation to the business of the authority and achieve continuous self-improvement.

• Responsibility: to speak up and report concerns about the ICT regulatory frameworks and laws, and seek clarification and guidance where there is doubt.

• Commitment: to develop the right attitude towards the job we undertake, encourage individual initiative and express our dedication in achieving our objects and function.

• Honesty: to be truthful in all our endeavours, to be honest and straightforward with one another and with our policy makers, communities, licensees, operators and service providers.

• Integrity: to express what we mean, to deliver what we promise and to stand for what is lawful.

• Respect: to treat one another with dignity and fairness, appreciating the diversity of our workforce and the uniqueness of each employee.

• Trust: to build confidence through framework and open and frank communication.