Global MVNO Lyca Mobile closed its doors in South Africa six years after launching in the country due to challenges in staying afloat in the market.
The MVNO stated on its website: “Sadly, it is no longer possible for Lyca Mobile to continue providing a service”, and that it had cut off service on January 9. It advised subscribers to move to another operator or risk losing services such as calls, text and connectivity all together.
Lyca Mobile did not state details on why it was no longer able to continue operating in South Africa. It was carried on the Cell C network.
South Africa faces constant energy challenges with blackouts being a regular occurrence. Providers have been relying on diesel generators and also face the threat of thieves looking to strip sites of precious materials, thus sending operating costs sky high for MNOs.
Lyca Mobile also pulled out of Romania with services terminating weeks ago on December 31.
