Yangtze Optics Africa Cable (YOA Cable) has significantly bolstered South Africa’s digital infrastructure through a substantial investment in its optical fibre manufacturing capabilities. The company has unveiled a R160 million expansion of its facility at the Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, marking a pivotal advancement in the nation’s telecommunications sector.
This expansion introduces a state-of-the-art 14,000 square meter manufacturing plant, now recognized as the largest optical fibre cable production facility on the African continent. The new plant enhances YOA Cable’s production capacity, enabling the company to meet the escalating demand for high-speed connectivity driven by the proliferation of 5G networks, artificial intelligence applications, and the broader digital transformation across various industries.
YOA Cable’s journey in South Africa commenced in 2016 with an initial investment of R150 million to establish a local manufacturing presence. The recent expansion elevates the company’s total investment in the region to over R310 million, underscoring its commitment to supporting South Africa’s digital economy.
The company’s growth also translates into significant employment opportunities. Currently employing 155 individuals, YOA Cable anticipates increasing its workforce to 210 permanent positions, focusing on learnerships and internships to cultivate local talent and expertise in optical fibre manufacturing.
YOA Cable operates as a joint venture between China’s Yangtze Optical Fibre and Cable Joint Stock Limited Company (YOFC) and South Africa’s JSE-listed Mustek Limited. This partnership exemplifies successful international collaboration aimed at enhancing local manufacturing capabilities and technological advancement.
The South African government has lauded YOA Cable’s investment, recognizing it as a significant contribution to the nation’s digital infrastructure development. The expansion aligns with governmental objectives to foster an inclusive digital economy and positions South Africa as a competitive player in the global optical fibre manufacturing market.
Through this substantial investment, YOA Cable not only strengthens its operational capacity but also plays a crucial role in advancing South Africa’s digital transformation, economic growth, and employment landscape.
Sources:
- YOA Cable invests R160m to expand Durban fibre plant
https://www.itweb.co.za/article/yoa-cable-invests-r160m-to-expand-durban-fibre-plant/kYbe9MXbKO2vAWpG - YOA Cable invests R160m to expand Durban fibre plant
https://absafricatv.com/yoa-cable-invests-r160m-to-expand-durban-fibre-plant/ - YOA launches larger optical fibre cable factory at Dube TradePort
https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/yoa-launches-larger-optical-fibre-cable-factory-at-dube-tradeport-2025-03-11 - YOA Cable launches biggest optical fibre plant in Africa
https://mg.co.za/business/2025-03-12-yoa-cable-launches-biggest-optical-fibre-plant-in-africa/ - Government Welcomes R160 Million Investment in Optical Fibre Cable Manufacturing Plant in Kwazulu-Natal
https://www.thedtic.gov.za/government-welcomes-r160-million-investment-in-optical-fibre-cable-manufacturing-plant-in-kwazulu-natal/
