Infrastructure special report
TELECOMMUNICATIONS: Internet for 22m by 2020?
Government plans to extend broadband access into much-neglected rural areas
The insatiable appetite for broadband Internet continues to spur spending in telecommunications infrastructure — mobile and fixed-line — with companies already committing to further investments in 2017. The availability of reliable broadband networks has led to smart phone sales and usage soaring, resulting in a surge in data usage. The availability of fast Internet has also opened up new industries such as mobile app developments and given rise to new online services such as online banking, video and music streaming. Other technology services such as the Internet of Things and cloud computing also require reliable connection to the Internet. According to telecommunications and postal services minister Siyabonga Cwele, total investments towards information and communication technology (ICT) increased by 18.8% to R28bn in 2016 — despite the tough economic environment. A recent report by the Independent Communications Authority of SA (Icasa) showed that 3G coverage has reached 99% and...
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