10 June 2025

The ANC Study Group on Communications and Digital Technologies has resolved to work to ensure that the state-owned digital infrastructure entity (SDIC), to be formed through a merger between signal provider Sentech and Broadband Infraco (BBI), comes to fruition so that we may tackle the existing and persistent digital divide, particularly affecting low-income communities and rural areas.

We are currently living with a situation where many South Africans, especially women and those in rural areas, lack access to the information and communication services that could improve their lives and opportunities. Coupled with the high cost of data and lack of quality internet coverage means that most of our people in the low -income groups are limited in terms of accessing education, employment, healthcare, and social connections. This “digital divide” creates a new form of social and economic exclusion, hindering opportunities for improvement and perpetuating the cycle of poverty.

After receiving briefings today during the meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies from the various entities with networks such as Eskom, Transnet, Sanral, and Prasa, we are optimistic that all these can collaborate to bridge the digital divide by leveraging their existing infrastructure and resources, such as fibre optic cables, to expand internet access, particularly in underserved areas.

We will continue to engage all role-players so that we realise the broader government strategy to rationalize state-owned enterprises and enhance digital infrastructure for economic growth and technological advancement.

Issued by the Whip of the ANC Study Group on Communications and Digital Technologies, Cde SI Subrathie

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