Internet connectivity in two South African provinces – Northern Cape and Free State – is getting a boost, thanks to a sizeable investment from Vodacom.

The mobile service provider is spending ZAR400 million this financial year, the final tranche in a three-year, ZAR1.2 billion initiative to expand network infrastructure and enhance capacity and resilience in its central region, with a focus on underserved areas, reports Africa Business Communities.

As part of this year’s investment, ZAR150 million will be spent on new sites and radio infrastructure, R210 million will go towards fibre and microwave upgrades, and R40 million will be dedicated to power backup systems to ensure network availability.

‘Our network investment will support a growing demand for superior connectivity services in the region, with data traffic up 42% and our data customer base growing by 3.63% year on year,’ says Evah Mthimunye, managing executive for Vodacom Central Region.

The investment will also support the region’s continued roll-out of 4G and 5G services in remote communities.

‘Through sustained investment in our network and digital solutions, Vodacom Central Region is working to ensure that no community is left behind in the digital era,’ says Mthimunye.

2 September 2025
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