Vodacom
is investing over R800 million in the current financial year to enhance its
network infrastructure, deploy new sites, and roll out full fibre broadband in
KwaZulu-Natal. This significant investment aims to bridge the digital divide in
remote areas, provide excellent service to customers, and achieve Vodacom's
goal of building an inclusive digital society.
The
investment will focus on building new network sites, particularly in deep rural
areas, modernising mobile networks and core infrastructure, deploying faster
mobile networks like LTE and 5G, and improving radio access network and
increasing connectivity.
This
investment will result in faster network speeds, increased connectivity for
customers, improved 3G, 4G, and 5G population coverage, and enhanced call setup
success rate and reduced call drop rate.Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal has also
partnered with the provincial government to digitalise the public sector,
supporting SMEs, and providing tailored solutions and financial support.
Additionally, the region has launched initiatives to lower the cost of communication,
such as customised voice and data deals, and introduced Easy2Own to facilitate
digital inclusion.
Vodacom's
purpose-led goal is to build inclusion for all, and the region continues to
sponsor educational programmes, provide internships, and donate to local
communities in need.
Imran Khan, Managing Executive, Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal region
commented, "We are making a significant investment in the network in
KwaZulu-Natal in order to achieve our goal of building an inclusive digital
society. Our goal is to give our customers an excellent network experience by
increasing the availability of a reliable and high-quality connectivity by
adding new sites and upgrading our network. Importantly, we have set aside
resources to roll out 130 new sites in deep rural areas in Ugu, Umhlabuyalingana,
Abaqulusi and Edumbe local municipalities. It is no longer acceptable for deep
rural residents to observe the digital revolution from the sidelines; they must
participate in it and benefit from the associated socio-economic benefits."
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
