This new commitment brings the company’s total investment in the region to ZAR1 billion over the past two years, reflecting its ongoing focus on expanding digital access in deep rural areas.
In the previous financial year, Vodacom invested ZAR400 million in Mpumalanga and now aims to further enhance broadband coverage through the deployment of new 4G and 5G sites. These sites will leverage spectrum in the 700MHz, 1800MHz, and 2100MHz bands to improve both network coverage and capacity. Currently, Vodacom operates around 1,300 mobile sites across the province, with 41% connected to high-speed fibre.
Monde Ngcukana, Managing Executive for Vodacom Mpumalanga, highlighted the rapid increase in data traffic, which has grown by over 42% year-on-year, with 90% of this traffic carried over 4G networks. He emphasised that the ongoing investment is not only about enhancing connectivity but also about fostering a more inclusive digital economy.
“By increasing coverage and capacity, we can ensure that all our customers are empowered by technology — whether through access to education, essential services, or supporting the growth of enterprises, from SMEs to the public sector, with transformative digital solutions,” said Ngcukana.
This strategic expansion underscores Vodacom’s commitment to bridging the digital divide in rural South Africa and providing communities with the tools necessary for economic growth and social development.
