The Department
of Communications and Digital Technologies has initiated a coordinated approach
to manage fibre networks across state-owned enterprises. Minister Solly Malatsi
and Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa have agreed to begin mapping and
consolidating public fibre assets to eliminate duplication and accelerate
last-mile connectivity.
The decision
addresses the current fragmented approach where enterprises including Eskom,
Transnet, and PRASA independently maintain separate fibre lines along similar
corridors. This has resulted in parallel infrastructure builds, increased
costs, and unused capacity while many communities continue to experience
limited broadband access.
The new
strategy will form part of the State Digital Infrastructure Company roadmap,
creating a unified framework for coordinating fibre assets across government
entities. The initiative aims to identify and utilize existing spare capacity
within state-owned fibre networks, preventing unnecessary duplicate
infrastructure investments and optimizing current resources.
This
coordinated approach represents a fundamental shift in how South Africa manages
its digital infrastructure, moving from siloed operations to an integrated
model that maximizes existing public investments. By leveraging the substantial
fibre assets already deployed by various state-owned enterprises, the
government can significantly reduce the cost and time required to expand
broadband access to underserved communities.
The initiative
focuses on spending smarter rather than spending more, recognizing that better
coordination of existing resources can achieve greater impact than building new
infrastructure in isolation. This strategy aligns with the government's broader
objective of turbocharging last-mile connectivity and ensuring that digital
infrastructure investments deliver maximum value for citizens.
By: Kanto Kai Okanta
