In a significant stride toward bridging the digital divide, the South African government has pledged R2.5 billion to enhance community Wi-Fi access across the nation. This investment is a cornerstone of the SA Connect programme, aiming to provide affordable internet connectivity to underserved communities, thereby fostering digital inclusion and economic growth.
Launched in 2013, SA Connect is the government’s flagship broadband initiative designed to extend internet access to all South Africans. The current phase of the programme focuses on deploying over 33,000 community Wi-Fi hotspots within the next three years, targeting connectivity for more than 5.8 million households. Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, emphasized the programme’s goal to create a new technology industry in South Africa, stating that the investment will be implemented over a 36-month period.
Beyond residential connectivity, SA Connect aims to link over 42,000 government facilities—including schools, health centers, post offices, police stations, and other government offices—to broadband services. This expansion is expected to enhance service delivery and promote digital literacy across various sectors.
To support the increased demand for internet services, the government plans to modernize the country’s network infrastructure. This includes the full deployment of 4G and 5G networks by 2025 and the phasing out of outdated 2G and 3G networks. The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies has announced that the importation and distribution of 2G devices will be prohibited to facilitate this transition.
The government’s substantial investment in community Wi-Fi infrastructure represents a significant step toward achieving universal internet access in South Africa. By focusing on both residential and public facility connectivity, the SA Connect programme aims to foster digital inclusion, stimulate economic growth, and improve the quality of life for millions of South Africans.
As the programme progresses, it is expected to play a crucial role in transforming South Africa into a digitally empowered society, ensuring that all citizens have the opportunity to participate in the digital economy.
Sources:
- BusinessTech – Government plans to build a new R2.5 billion tech industry in South Africa
https://businesstech.co.za/news/technology/595464/government-plans-to-build-a-new-r2-5-billion-tech-industry-in-south-africa-in-the-next-3-years/ - Gov.za – Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni: Broadband Connectivity Drive Programme
https://www.gov.za/news/speeches/minister-khumbudzo-ntshavheni-broadband-connectivity-drive-programme-08-jun-2022 - MyBroadband – Massive South African public Wi-Fi project kicking off second phase
https://mybroadband.co.za/news/government/533199-massive-south-african-public-wi-fi-project-kicking-off-second-phase.html - SAnews – SA Connect project forges ahead
https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/sa-connect-project-forges-ahead - ITWeb – SA Connect phase two roll out continues
https://www.itweb.co.za/article/sa-connect-phase-two-roll-out-continues/O2rQGqAEA85qd1ea - News24 – Govt revises plan to roll out 33,000 Wi-Fi hotspots, and ropes in small business
https://www.news24.com/fin24/Companies/govt-revises-plan-to-roll-out-33-000-wi-fi-hotspots-and-ropes-in-small-business-20220520
