Reassessing South Africa’s Digital Divide: Embracing True Heroes of Connectivity

South Africa’s “digital divide” is largely influenced by high pricing from mobile network operators, not lack of infrastructure. While major companies like Vodacom claim they are key to bridging this gap, smaller service providers and government initiatives are successfully extending connectivity in underserved areas. The narrative that only large MNOs can help is a myth, as real progress is being made by agile companies working to connect the unconnected.

The discussion surrounding the “digital divide” in South Africa is often mischaracterized, primarily by mobile network operators (MNOs) who promote this narrative while maintaining excessive pricing models. Contrary to popular belief, the digital exclusion does not arise from a lack of infrastructure, as reported by Icasa, which claims 100% 2G coverage, 99% 3G coverage, and 98.5% LTE/4G coverage. Instead, the crux of the issue lies within the operators’ inflated pricing structures that effectively exclude lower-income populations from access.

In light of the failed Vodacom-Maziv merger, Vodacom CEO Shameel Joosub expressed concerns about the impact on South Africa’s poor, claiming it would exacerbate the digital divide. However, subsequent developments indicate that South Africa remains committed to expanding network rollouts in neglected areas. Noteworthy initiatives include a government-sponsored broadband access fund facilitating service providers to extend coverage to underserved communities.

Various smaller internet service providers (ISPs) and wireless internet service providers (Wisps) have also been proactive in connecting communities. The government aims to connect over a million households within six months, with competitive data packages beginning at R5/day. In contrast, both Vodacom and MTN’s cheapest prepaid options start at R5.50, exemplifying the affordability issue plaguing larger corporations.

Firms like Fibertime have successfully connected over 70,000 households across multiple provinces, with plans to reach an additional million. Similarly, Ilitha aims to connect 500,000 homes, supported by the foreign investments that Vodacom claimed would be hindered. Additionally, Frogfoot Networks, by acquiring 11,000 km of fibre from ATC, is providing essential services to lower-income demographics while enabling smaller firms to enhance connectivity.

Numerous companies are also contributing to this cause, including Too Much WiFi and ThinkWiFi, which focus on serving underprivileged areas. Vodacom’s portrayal of itself as the lone champion for these communities is greatly overstated, weakening its stance that the failed merger would harm foreign investments.

Furthermore, Communications Minister Solly Malatsi emphasizes digital inclusion through the lens of smartphone affordability, advocating for the removal of taxes on mobile devices to improve access. While this calls for adjustments among major operators, there remains skepticism regarding their willingness to lower prices, indicating that smaller providers will likely lead the charge in closing the gap between the rich and poor.

Popular initiatives like Starlink may garner attention, yet their practicality is questionable as they seek to fill gaps where cellular networks fail. To bridge the digital divide effectively, attention must shift away from the distractions of large corporations and instead focus on community-driven efforts.

The belief that only large MNOs possess the capability to address the digital divide is a misconception. The establishment of the Association of Comms and Technology by these giants could, counterintuitively, widen the gap they seek to address. The real advocates are the smaller, nimble businesses and government programs making tangible strides in connecting marginalized communities. Recognizing and supporting these initiatives over industry rhetoric will be crucial in effectively narrowing the digital divide in South Africa.

The digital divide in South Africa is shaped more by the pricing structures of mobile network operators than by infrastructure inadequacies. Smaller service providers and government initiatives are actively bridging this gap, despite the exaggerated claims of large MNOs. Affordable access and community-focused efforts are essential to truly address digital exclusion, highlighting that the real heroes in this narrative are those working diligently on the ground.

Original Source: techcentral.co.za