Broadband Infraco Expands Digital Access with Open-Access Spectrum Push
Broadband Infraco supports open-access spectrum allocation, aiming to expand digital infrastructure, reduce data costs, and bridge South Africa’s digital divide.
Broadband Infraco is dedicated to playing a pivotal role in expanding digital infrastructure accessibility and skills across South Africa. The PCC’s position to allocate spectrum to the SDIC or any of the mandated SOEs on an open-access basis will go a long way in providing cost-effective broadband services to marginalized communities. BBI welcomes this announcement and will work with key stakeholders to fulfill this objective.
This comes on the back of BBI’s strategic focus which encompasses several key areas to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach as follows:
- Collaboration with Regulatory Bodies: We are committed to engaging actively with ICASA and other regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with spectrum management, license conditions, and universal service obligations. This collaboration aims to reduce data costs and improve the quality of service for all South Africans.
- Partnerships with SMMEs: Broadband Infraco will work closely with SMMEs to implement transformation imperatives and ensure the rollout of digital infrastructure is inclusive and widespread.
- Digitization of Government Services: We support the PPC’s agenda by providing the necessary infrastructure for digitizing government services. This initiative will enhance the efficiency and accessibility of public services, making them more user-friendly and effective.
- Bridging the Digital Divide: Our focus is on a holistic approach to infrastructure rollout, enhancing digital skills development, and lowering the cost of devices and data. We are committed to initiatives that improve digital literacy and provide affordable access to technology, ensuring no one is left behind in the digital age.
- Utilizing State Broadband Assets to Benefit the Country: Duplication of telecoms infrastructure causes broadband services to become expensive. The PPC position which includes giving significant attention to the consolidation of state-owned fibre assets that sit within other SOEs, such as Eskom, Transnet, PRASA, Sanral and others, will make a huge difference in providing digital services to all corners of the country.
Broadband Infraco applauds the PCC leadership in paving a way to resolve matters of national significance and is committed to expanding digital infrastructure accessibility and skills, thereby supporting the broader goals of the 4th Industrial Revolution and bridging the digital divide.
