Intelligent CXO Issue 27 | Page 55

REGIONAL ROUND-UP

AFRICA APAC EUROPE MIDDLE EAST NORTH AMERICA

PRIVATE SECTOR COMPLEMENTS GOVERNMENT ' S EFFORTS TO BRIDGE DIGITAL DIVIDE IN SOUTH AFRICA

Digital inequality continues to be a major challenge facing South Africa . Businesses and the government recognise this challenge and are committed to bridging the digital divide and ensuring access to affordable and reliable Internet connectivity for all citizens .

The South African government is committed to promoting universal access to affordable and reliable ICT services . The National Integrated ICT Policy White Paper seeks to create an enabling environment for the growth of the ICT sector , create jobs and contribute to the country ' s economic growth .
The private sector , particularly telecom infrastructure providers , have also taken the initiative to help address the challenge of digital inequality in South
Africa . Telecom providers have invested in expanding their network infrastructure to underserved areas and are providing affordable data plans to their customers .
The South African government has put in place measures such as the South African National Broadband Plan , the South African Connect Initiative and the Telkom Connected Schools Programme . These initiatives seek to provide affordable and reliable broadband connectivity to all citizens , promote competition in the telecoms sector and provide access to essential services such as healthcare and education .
However , despite these efforts , significant challenges remain , particularly in terms of telecoms infrastructure . The country ' s telecoms infrastructure faces a number of challenges , including inadequate infrastructure in some areas , lack of competition in the market and high costs of data and voice services .
These challenges have made it difficult for many South Africans to access affordable and reliable Internet connectivity , particularly those living in rural areas and low income communities .
Corridor Africa Technologies , a leading provider of digital solutions , is addressing the issue of digital inequality . The company recognises that access to affordable and reliable Internet connectivity is a critical issue in bridging the digital divide and ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens .
The telecoms infrastructure provider recognises the importance of private sector initiatives in complementing the government ' s efforts in bridging the digital divide . Telecom providers have invested in expanding their network infrastructure to underserved areas and are providing affordable data plans to their customers .
" We believe that access to affordable and reliable Internet connectivity is a fundamental human right , and we are committed to playing our part in addressing digital inequality in South Africa ," said Corridor Africa Technologies CEO , Matone Ditlhake .
The government ’ s South African National Broadband Plan seeks to ensure that all citizens have access to high-speed Internet connectivity by 2030 . Corridor Africa Technologies believes that through collaborative efforts between the private and public sectors , South Africa can bridge the digital divide and ensure that all citizens have access to the benefits of the digital age . x
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