This article critiques the notion of a “digital divide” in South Africa, attributing it largely to high pricing by mobile network operators. It highlights that extensive network coverage exists yet many are excluded due to costs. Smaller service providers, bolstered by government initiatives, are making significant strides in bridging this divide. The piece emphasizes the need to focus on these grassroots efforts rather than the dominant narratives from major operators.
The discussion surrounding South Africa’s “digital divide” often misconstrues the origin and implications of the term. Mobile network operators (MNOs) may have coined these phrases to engender a favorable perception of their services while maintaining exorbitant prepaid pricing structures that exclude the less privileged from connectivity. Despite claims of infrastructural limitations, data from the communications regulator Icasa reveals extensive coverage of 2G, 3G, and LTE/4G services, indicating that the divide primarily results from high prices rather than a lack of infrastructure.
Following the Competition Tribunal’s decision to block the Vodacom-Maziv deal, Vodacom Group’s CEO Shameel Joosub expressed his discontent, calling it a “travesty” for South Africa, and claimed it would hinder bridging the digital divide and discourage foreign investment. However, the aftermath of this event demonstrated that Vodacom’s predictions were exaggerated, as the country continues to expand network roll-outs into underserved communities by leveraging smaller service providers and government initiatives.
The South African government has initiated a broadband access fund that enables smaller Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to extend connectivity into rural areas, aiming to connect over a million households within six months at affordable rates. Companies like Fibertime and Ilitha are also actively connecting thousands of homes, underscoring that larger operators such as Vodacom and MTN are not the only entities working to close the digital gap.
Numerous emerging companies, including Too Much WiFi and Wire-Wire, are contributing to connectivity in underserved areas. These initiatives reveal that the portrayal of MNOs as the sole providers of digital solutions is misleading and that new players hold considerable promise in addressing these issues.
Furthermore, Communications Minister Solly Malatsi emphasizes the need for affordable devices and plans to eliminate taxes on smartphones to enhance digital access for a wider demographic. However, there are doubts regarding whether established MNOs will lower their prices sufficiently to facilitate greater access to their services. Meanwhile, initiatives like Starlink’s offerings, designed to function where cell signals are absent, remain impractical for many within the targeted demographics.
Ultimately, the true contributors to bridging the digital divide are those smaller companies and government efforts that are pragmatically working on the ground. It is essential to shift focus from the narratives perpetuated by large operators, recognizing the vital work being done by these smaller players rather than succumbing to industry fear tactics. The allegiance to MNOs may increase division rather than foster cohesion, making it imperative to advocate for and support local enterprises that aim to connect the unconnected.
In conclusion, South Africa’s digital divide is not merely a result of infrastructural inadequacy but is significantly impacted by the high pricing of services offered by major mobile network operators. While these operators attempt to position themselves as the sole saviors in addressing connectivity issues, the narrative overlooks the considerable efforts made by smaller service providers and government initiatives. With proactive steps being taken to improve access and affordability, it is critical to support these grassroots efforts rather than rely solely on larger corporations for solutions.
Original Source: techcentral.co.za
