Nkosana Makate, the inventor of the revolutionary “Please-Call-Me” idea, is making headlines once again as the Constitutional Court hears his ongoing battle for fair compensation from Vodacom.
Advocate Stuart Scott, representing Makate, described the invention as “one of the most brilliant ideas there has ever been,” asserting that Makate deserves R9.4 billion for his innovation, which has generated billions in revenue for Vodacom since its rollout in 2001.
The case arises from Vodacom’s appeal against a Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) ruling that dismissed its R47-million offer, deeming it inadequate.
The SCA had previously ordered Vodacom to compensate Makate with 5% to 7.5% of the revenue generated from the service over its 18-year run, an amount estimated between R9 billion and R63 billion.
Vodacom’s Argument
Vodacom’s lawyer, Advocate Wim Trengrove, contended that the R47-million offer—now R80 million with interest—is fair.
He argued that the Please-Call-Me service lost commercial value over time, especially after rival network MTN introduced a similar feature.
Additionally, Trengrove stated that Makate’s original concept, which involved a simple “buzzing” feature, was not the same as the service ultimately implemented by Vodacom.
Key Arguments from Makate’s Side
Advocate Scott emphasized that the idea addressed a critical problem for Vodacom and its customers—allowing users without airtime to send free call-back messages.
He argued that Vodacom has consistently profited from the invention and that paying Makate the requested amount would not significantly impact the company’s finances.
A Long-Running Battle
This case has spanned over 15 years, beginning in 2008 when Makate first pursued legal action against his former employer.
The Constitutional Court, which initially ruled in Makate’s favor in 2016, is now tasked with deciding whether to uphold the SCA’s judgment or entertain Vodacom’s appeal.
Public and Legal Interest
Thursday’s proceedings attracted significant public attention, with Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and other high-profile figures present.
Supporters of Makate packed the courtroom to show solidarity for his cause, which has become a symbol of corporate accountability in South Africa.
Makate, who was just 24 years old when he conceptualized the Please-Call-Me service in 2000, cited personal reasons for creating the idea—he wanted to stay connected with his then-girlfriend, now wife, without needing airtime.
Their love story and his pursuit of justice have added a human touch to the legal saga.
The court has reserved judgment, leaving South Africans and the broader business community eager to see the outcome of this landmark case.
