In President Cyril Ramaphosa’s latest letter to the public, he reflected on the government’s recent conclusion of how important mobile telecommunications is for the country.
And given, the recent price hikes especially in fuel and food, South Africans are relieved to have something that is used and purchased so often, become a bit cheaper.
“Like the mineral wealth that lies beneath our soil, radio spectrum is a valuable national resource that needs to be used for the benefit of all South Africans,” President Ramaphosa said.
Everyone will experenice the benefits
In December 2019, the Competition Commission did a data services market inquiry and found that the cost of data in South Africa was “considerably higher” than in other countries.
“The spectrum release is expected to reduce the cost of mobile data, expand network reach to rural and outlying areas, and improve network quality.
“Every South African who uses a mobile device will feel the benefits of this reform, especially the poor and those who currently don’t access the internet due to high costs or a lack of coverage.”
“Expanding digital access is critical for economic growth,” the Ramaphosa said.
The auction of spectrum is an important achievement. It was delayed for many years due to the policy drift, state incapacity and vested interests that were a feature of the era of state capture.
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) March 22, 2022
https://t.co/vpC9nJ72jG pic.twitter.com/5l5lFTV3C1
Cheaper data means more opportunities
Ramaphosa continued to explain that cheaper data will give more young people – who make up the biggest % of unemployment rates – opportunities to gain access to digital platforms. This way they will be able to build up portfolios and seek employment online.
Students will also be able to access information and education materials with greater ease. And lastly, entrepreneurs will now be able to start a business from almost anywhere and reach new markets.
“Equally, the availability of this spectrum will contribute to economic transformation. It will allow many more people, especially those from remote areas and poor communities, to access digital resources and will improve their ability to participate in economic activity.”
“We are determined that South Africa must not be left behind by the digital economy, just as we are determined that no community and no person should be left behind in experiencing the vast benefits of being digitally connected to the world.”
