Q: Are fears that Sentech will not be ready with its digital migration plans by 2010 justified?
"These concerns might have been true earlier in the year, but the issues raised then are no longer valid. I can assure you that - after our meetings with FIFA and the local organising committee - the ICT sector will be ready by 2010. The Department of Communications has given us our responsibilities, so now we have clarity."
Q: With just three years to go before the Confederations Cup, is Sentech working as fast as it should be?
"Absolutely. For instance, we will increase staff numbers in each regional area by 10%, and by 100% in the National Operating Centre. Bear in mind that digital equipment is also easier to maintain than analogue equipment. We have been visiting the FNB stadium, Ellis Park and Loftus Versfeld and a lot is happening."
The larger players in the ICT sector need to share the World Cup load - it's got to be a joint effort.
Frans Lindeque, acting COO, Sentech
Q: What is the biggest challenge Sentech faces in bringing digital, and high-definition TV, to the world by 2010?
"Although we have planned properly, we must make sure we reach our milestones - having 78% digital terrestrial coverage by 2010 is a challenge. The other main challenge is ensure we select the correct technology, for instance: deciding whether to use Mpeg2 or Mpeg4 compression technology, or free-to-air versus encryption."
Q: Has Sentech's role changed following Neotel's arrival?
"No - there is no change to our vision and our role in the industry."
Q: What still needs to happen before SA becomes technologically ready for the World Cup?
"We have got to work much harder as a sector as a whole - the larger players in the ICT sector need to share the load - it's got to be a joint effort."
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