President Cyril Ramaphosa says the recently concluded auction of high-demand radio frequency spectrum in South Africa will be a catalyst for the economy, not only bridging the digital divide for those still without internet access, but also for the growth and development.
The auction of spectrum – used by mobile networks, television, radio stations and other industries to transmit sound, videos, data and images through radio frequencies – earned the government about R14.4 billion.
Concluded last Friday, it paves the way for faster internet, cheaper connectivity and the roll-out of 5G internet in the country.
Ramaphosa said the auction had already created new “opportunities for investment in electrical generation, freight rail and ports”.
He also believes that key industries will benefit from the availability of more spectrum and promised that ordinary members of society will not be left behind.
“The licensing of this new spectrum will be accompanied by agreed social obligations to connect public schools, health facilities and police stations over the next three years. 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.”
Ramaphosa further emphasised that this increased digital access was critical for the growth of the economy, which continued to recover from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Cheaper data means that young people will have greater access to digital platforms to seek job opportunities online.
“It will also 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,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za & Christiaan Schultz, Freight News reporter.