OVER DELAYED number activation

I app**** for a cell phone upgrade via Telkom's online services, and received the device on the Fri, 14 December. Immediately upon receipt, my SIM card was deactivated (emergency calls only). I was informed that my account and SIM card will automatically be updated and activated within 72hrs. Of course, I have taken into account that this does not include weekends and public holidays.

I waited until the 72hrs was completed, but yet still no activation. I then went into the Telkom store twice on separate occasions to enquire about the progress. They informed me that unfortunately as I app**** online, they could not assist me and that I would need to call the call center. I then called the call center on the Sat, 22 December to follow up, and was told by the consultant that the system indicates that there has been no upgrade or even any device that has been delivered. She then advised me to call the 10213 number as they were able to assist me as she couldn't activate it on her side. I called the number but their service apparently does not run on a Saturday. I called back on the Mon, 24 December, and the consultant advised that this has happened with many other contracts that was also delivered on Fri, 14 December. She advised that she is going to escalate my enquiry and send it straight through to their back office. As my SIM is not activated there would be no way to find out the progress of this without me having to call in all the time.

I again called them today, Fri, 28 December and was told that my activation is still pending and may only be processed in the new year as most of the back office consultants are on leave.

This has been a very frustrating process as no one is able to help me and actually tell me when my SIM card will be in order. To add to this, I will need to pay for this full month of no service and no device use, which I feel is extremely unfair.