The deputy minister of communications and digital technologies Pilly Mapulane is visiting De – Aar as part of the launch of the broadband project alongside the Northern Cape provincial government. The official launch of the Free WiFi hotspot project in the Pixley ka Seme district in Nonzwakazi has commenced at 9 this morning and is expected to be concluded at 15:00 this afternoon. According to information, this launch is taking place as a follow-up on a commitment made in May 2023 by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies during its budget vote that 80% connectivity will be reached by 2024. The department states that the project is intended to improve broadband connectivity and enhance internet access in the region. Furthermore, the initiative aims to bridge the digital divide by providing accessible internet connectivity to communities, and empowering individuals and small businesses with the tools they need to thrive in the digital age. According to information, the Universal Service and Access Agency of South Africa (USAASA) has so far connected 114 public access sites with free Wi-Fi hotspots and is providing digital skills training for the whole District. This initiative also seeks to address access gap challenges experienced by communities in the area and is part of the SA Connect Phase 2, which includes the rollout of broadband infrastructure in communities across the country.

Journalist: Rene Julies
Email: rckjulies@gmail.com