South Africa’s digital divide is primarily a pricing issue rather than a lack of infrastructure. Extensive coverage statistics indicate that it is the high costs from mobile network operators that exclude the underserved. Smaller service providers are actively working to create connectivity solutions, highlighting a need to support grassroots initiatives rather than relying solely on large operators.
The digital divide in South Africa often stems not from a lack of infrastructure but from the exorbitant pricing set by mobile network operators (MNOs). Coverage statistics show that South Africa enjoys extensive network availability with 100% 2G, 99% 3G, and 98.5% LTE coverage. Yet, these statistics are overshadowed by the high costs that prevent affordable access for many individuals, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds.
Recent critiques emerged following the Competition Tribunal’s blockage of the Vodacom-Maziv deal. Vodacom’s CEO described the decision as a “travesty” and lamented that it would disproportionately affect the poor while claiming it dealt a blow to foreign investment aimed at bridging the digital divide. However, the ongoing development of network roll-outs in underserved areas contradicts Vodacom’s dire predictions.
A positive example includes the South African government’s broadband access fund, which allows smaller service providers to enhance connectivity in previously neglected regions. Well-established wireless internet service providers have also been making significant contributions, aiming to connect a million households with data packages starting at only R5/day, showcasing a commitment to affordability.
Companies like Fibertime have already connected over 70,000 homes in townships and plan to extend to a million more. Similarly, Ilitha aims to reach 500,000 households using foreign investment robustly, showcasing a proactive approach to expanding services in underserved regions, which Vodacom’s claims fail to recognize.
Further efforts by various companies in the region, including Too Much WiFi, Wire-Wire, and Project Isizwe, demonstrate that numerous local initiatives are working to fill the connectivity gaps left by larger operators. Consequently, the narrative that MNOs are the sole saviors of connectivity has been severely overstated.
Communications officials, including Minister Solly Malatsi, champion strategies aimed at digital inclusion through more affordable devices and services. Efforts are ongoing to remove ad valorem taxes on smartphones, which are now seen as essential for participation in the digital economy. Adjusting the pricing structures of larger mobile operators may be necessary, although skepticism remains regarding their willingness to accommodate new users.
Overall, current media engagements and discussions often misrepresent practical solutions in favor of sensational options like Starlink’s technology. The reality lies in recognizing smaller service providers and grassroots initiatives making tangible efforts to close the digital divide. The future of connectivity depends on supporting these grassroots movements rather than relying solely on large corporations supposedly focused on cohesion in the industry.
In summary, South Africa’s digital divide is largely a result of high prices set by mobile network operators rather than a fundamental lack of infrastructure. Smaller providers and government initiatives are making substantial headway in connecting underserved communities. The true solutions to bridging this gap do not lie with large MNOs but with agile, local service providers dedicated to improving digital access. Hence, it is crucial to focus on these proactive initiatives to achieve true digital inclusion.
Original Source: techcentral.co.za
