WE DON’T JUST SELL FIBRE WE SHAPE THE FUTURE
WE CHANGE WAYS OF LEARNING IN KZN A NEW DIGITAL ERA FOR WOOD AND RAW PRIMARY!
NET NINE NINE EMPOWERS TOWNSHIP ENTREPRENEURS
MATHEWS MPETE CUP IS MORE THAN SPORT A LIFELINE FOR GA-RANKUWA!
BREAKING BARRIERS, EXPANDING HORIZONS!
SATISFIED CLIENTS: YOU SPEAK
OUR GO TO MEN ON THE GROUND
The month of June 2025 has been very good for Net Nine Nine.
These were the 30 days that proved we create careers, shape the future — and that this is our way of conducting business. It’s a lifestyle, not just about selling emotions.
Many thought we were bluffing when we launched the Mandisa Shiceka School of Specialisation Fibre Upskilling Programme — an initiative designed to empower learners with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the telecommunications industry.
Today, Mzukhona Malcon Makhute and Dineo Molefe, who went against all odds to show their fellow 600 competitive learners a clean pair of heels, achieved the highest scores across both the theoretical and practical components of the course.
They have now received a fully funded fibre splicing course in Centurion — covering all costs including transport, accommodation, and meals — a package valued at R50 000 per learner.
“In May 2025, Dineo and Malcon became the youngest students ever to complete the course in South Africa,” according to COFI Training representatives. Trainers praised their engagement, discipline, and exceptional performance.
Now, in another ground-breaking project — one that will undoubtedly change lives across all spheres of learning in KwaZulu-Natal — a fully functional computer lab was handed over to Wood and Raw Primary School principal Hlengiwe Mchunu on 20 June 2025.
This was truly beautiful.
The gleaming young faces of the 30 learners who first gained access to the computer lab told a complete story — shocked, excited, and amazed at seeing 30 professionally installed computers in front of them, ready to be used. They just had to hit the keyboard, move the mouse, and surf the net without any buffering.
But hey — for many of these learners, it was the first time sitting in front of a computer. Many didn’t know what to touch or how to operate the bright screen in front of them.
Luckily, a team of experts from the provincial Department of Education were on-site, knuckling down to show them how to operate a computer.
Teachers discussed seating arrangements and who might best set up their “office” in the computer lab, while SGB officials brainstormed how to best look after the expensive machines — despite the installed alarm system.
We’re all about shaping careers — not just installing unbreakable internet connections.
As we enter the month of July — a period where we share the love in honour of the late statesman Nelson Mandela — we are reminded of our responsibility to act on the International Day in Honour of Madiba, 18 July, the day our former president was born.
We believe in a palpable sense of excitement in everything we do — and the next 30 days will be no different, as we march forward to make Net Nine Nine not just a service, but a lifestyle brand.
Wood and Raw Primary School, nestled in a township with limited resources, situated at Inge Avenue, Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal, has just achieved a historic milestone that will forever transform the way education is delivered within its walls — thanks to a generous donation from Net Nine Nine.
The school now boasts its first-ever fully equipped computer lab and free, unlimited internet access, ushering in a new era of digital learning for both learners and educators within the Dumisani Makhaye Village, City of uMhlathuze.
Until recently, Wood and Raw Primary School had been relying on “unplugged” methods to teach coding and robotics — a theoretical approach without access to actual computers. But after Net Nine Nine donated 30 computers and two laptops, things have changed for the better.
While dedicated teachers did their best, limited tools meant that learners were excluded from competitions and opportunities that betterresourced schools in cities could access — but this has changed with Net Nine Nine’s intervention.
“We are super excited. It’s history in the making. Now our kids will be measured in a competitive world. They’ll be able to stand alongside learners from resource-rich schools across the country,” said school principal Hlengiwe Mchunu, who also indicated that they’re a Quintile One, no-fee school.
The newly installed computer lab, officially handed over to the school on 20 June 2025, has
internet connectivity that covers both the administrative block and the technology lab.
For educators, this is a game changer. All the guests who graced the handover of the computer lab — from KZN Education directors, politicians, religious leaders, media, and the school governing body — concurred that this is a huge milestone.
Among those who attended the special occasion were Mrs Welile Nzama, Education District Director in the King Cetshwayo District; Head of Education Village and Empangeni High School (EHS) principal Mr Sizwe Zwane; Contract Management Centre Manager Mr Sibusiso Dube; Ginger Mnguni, the school’s SGB chair; Ward 9 Councillor Mr M. Mdaka; and a contingent of local media who came to witness the momentous occasion.
Previously, Wood and Raw had to use their own mobile data to access online materials. But now, with unlimited internet access, teachers can research lesson plans, explore interactive resources, and better prepare learners for subjects like coding, robotics, and other science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
“There will be no more excuses for not researching. We can now take learners outside the classroom for practical work and projects, and the internet will support us in doing so,” added Mchunu.
Despite being a no-fee school reliant on limited government allocations and community
A
fundraising, Wood and Raw Primary School continues to rise above its challenges.
Net Nine Nine’s contribution not only empowers educators and learners — it sends a strong message to the community: quality education and digital readiness are possible, even in underserved areas. It also highlights the need for the Department of Education to accelerate its push towards digital migration.
The donation aligns with the school’s ambition to ensure that Grade 7 learners graduate with basic computer literacy — a vital skill in today’s world dominated by digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).
“We’ve been dreaming of this. We’ve trained teachers through workshops but lacked the tools to implement what we learned. Now, we’re ready. We may not have a fully qualified coding teacher yet, but with support from the Department of Education and benchmarking with neighbouring schools, we’re getting there,” said Mchunu.
As the only school in Empangeni with a fully functional computer lab, Wood and Raw Primary’s transformation represents a beacon of hope. It is poised to attract more learners, uplift educational standards, and prepare learners not just to pass, but to thrive in the digital world.
The staff also expressed deep gratitude to Net Nine Nine’s leadership team — especially CEO Albert Oosthuysen, Chief of Staff Nicholas Thipe, and the executive team.
“We are beyond grateful. You didn’t just donate equipment — you invested in the future of our children. We hope this is just the beginning of a long partnership. We still have a library that needs to be equipped,” the principal shared.
Looking ahead, the school hopes Net Nine Nine will also assist with revamping its adjacent library, envisioning it as a modern media centre to match the new computer lab.
In a time where rural schools are often left behind, Wood and Raw Primary School is stepping boldly into the future — proving that with the right support, even the most modest institutions can produce tomorrow’s innovators.
Net Nine Nine’s unlimited internet access means teachers can now research extensively, bringing broader perspectives into their classrooms — a model pioneered by Fibre Internet Service Providers’ Installations Quality Assurance Manager, Thapelo Mopailo.
“What makes this story truly inspiring is our vision as a school. This is not just about introducing technology — it will unlock many doors to future possibilities,” reiterated Mopailo.
Mopailo noted that for a school in a disadvantaged community, this computer lab represents more than hardware — it represents hope, opportunity, and the belief that every child, regardless of their background, deserves access to 21st-century learning tools.
“The journey has just begun, but the potential is limitless,” added Mopailo.
MATHEWS MPETE CUP IS MORE THAN SPORT
A handful of years ago, Ga-Rankuwa View Clinic Ground — better known as the RDP Sports Ground — was little more than a dumping site, with sewage spilling everywhere and underground wetland water soaking the dusty ground, making it unplayable. Not much could be said about the faded goalposts either.
This was a stark reminder of the glory days in the 1980s, when giants like Kaizer Chiefs, Manning Rangers, Moroka Swallows and Orlando Pirates thrilled local crowds in a similar kind of atmosphere.
However, this past Youth Month — from 14 to 16 June 2025 — the same decaying Ga-Rankuwa View Ground, now with a section converted into netball courts, roared back to life. The 4th annual Mathews Mpete Diski99 Tournament unfolded, flooding the township with colour from an assortment of sponsors, loud music, and the thud of footballs echoing across newly chalked lines.
Across three exhilarating days, more than 850 young athletes competed in Under-15, Under-19, and women’s football, netball, masters’ matches, a 5 km fun walk, aerobics marathons, and even a 30 km cycling challenge.
Among the standout performers were Ga-Rankuwa Shining Stars FC, who claimed both boys’ finals — edging out Tiger Boys FC 1–0 in the Under-19 category. This rare double capped their season in style, as they also beat GS Sporting to walk away with two trophies and custom-made gold medals.
Ga-Rankuwa Ladies FC beat Masakeng Highlanders 1–0 to grab the women’s title in a match that left a vociferous crowd buzzing on the sidelines.
Fifteen-year-old Atlegang Moloisane, who started every final for both Ga-Rankuwa Shining Stars’ squads, credited the team’s grit:
“We went behind early in the U-15 final but never panicked,” he said, beaming while cradling two gleaming medals. “By the time the penalties came, we’d already convinced ourselves we were champions.”
Jaguars Ladies (U-15) and Golden Panthers (U-19) split the netball spoils after shocking Mighty Eagles and Moonwalkers, respectively.
Tournament founder Mathews Mpete — a journalist by trade, PR manager at a fibre internet service provider, and community activist by choice — watched from the touchline, visibly
moved by what his brainchild has become: a vibrant gathering attracting crowds from across the township and neighbouring suburbs.
“When we kicked off in 2021, it was just about giving kids a game to play. Four years later, big brands are calling us to get involved because they see genuine development happening out here,” he said.
This year’s event drew support from Hollywoodbets Foundation, Telkom, Mokoepa Security, Red Neo Security, Net Nine Nine, Sanlam, Wimpy, FNB, and the City of Tshwane.
Tshwane MMC for Community and Social Development, Palesa Modise — among the spectators on 16 June — is already toying with the idea of adopting the programme to continue bringing the township to life.
Instead of volatile cash prizes, finalists take home practical gear — full kits, balls, cones, corner flags — ensuring that equipment shortages never again block progress.
Ga-Rankuwa wrestles daily with youth unemployment, substance abuse, and a lack of professional facilities. But the Mathews Mpete Foundation is disrupting that narrative.
During tournament week, dusty streets pulsed with vuvuzelas, players hustled instead of hanging idle, and small vendors around the ground enjoyed rare bumper sales.
Local SAPS and Department of Justice employees even laced up for the Masters’ fixtures, turning fitness into community theatre. The message is simple: role models belong on every corner.
Organisers are already plotting the 2026 edition, with daily attendance expected to top 3,000 spectators and the player roster potentially exceeding 900, especially if cycling and netball entries continue to rise.
Mpete hopes that with sustained corporate support, the tournament will soon rival township showcases like the famed Philly’s Games.
A formal mentorship arm now connects promising footballers with academic tutors and career counsellors — ensuring that raw talent is matched with classroom success. Several alumni have signed semi-professional contracts since 2023. Many more, says Mpete, are already on scouting shortlists.
Perhaps the tournament’s greatest victory is the one not recorded on any scoreboard: the reclaimed space. What was once an abandoned field is now a stage for ambition — a reminder that world-class dreams can sprout from township soil.
“These grounds were neglected for years,” Mpete reflected. “Now they are alive again — and so are our kids’ hopes. This is where futures begin.”
As the final whistle blew and the portable floodlights dimmed, players exchanged hugs, spectators drifted home, and vendors packed up empty coolers.
The RDP Sports Ground settled back into quiet — but its transformation was complete. The dust may still cling to boots, but in Ga-Rankuwa, dreams now travel further than ever, carried on the echo of cheers and the promise of another Mathews Mpete Cup just over the horizon.
Net Nine Nine has ignited women’s empowerment with the launch of its Botshabelo store.
The ribbon-cutting in Botshabelo was far more than a formality – it marked a turning point for women living on the slopes of Blesberg (Bald Mountain) near Thaba Nchu.
In this Free State township of just over 900 000 residents, under Mangaung Municipality, Net Nine Nine’s local store and network launch opened new doors to jobs, contracts, and hope.
To honour the occasion, Net Nine Nine gathered community members and officials from every level of government under one roof at Lenyora La Thuto Secondary School Hall.
Women draped in vibrant Shweshwe fabric and elegant headwraps filled the venue, embodying the day’s theme: “NET99 E RE MOSADI KE NAKO” (Woman, Your Time Is Now).
Loud cheers erupted as speakers reminded the audience that when a woman stumbles, the entire social fabric weakens – and when she succeeds, communities thrive.
Zinn Lockmann, Mangaung Metro’s Manager for Economic and Rural Development Entrepreneurship, pledged municipal support to help Free State women launch and scale their business ventures:
“Taking part in initiatives like this fuels economic growth,” she told the crowd.
“We don’t all need to chase riches, but every family deserves comfort and the freedom to travel. Let’s create millionaires and billionaires right here in Botshabelo.”
Lockmann praised Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams for her commitment to building powerhouse enterprises in townships and villages.
She urged women to recognise opportunity – whether in selling popcorn or manufacturing vehicles – saying global markets still have space for local innovators.
Historically, Botshabelo’s economy has struggled, with many young people relying on social grants. Lockmann challenged women to step beyond conventional roles:
“Don’t limit yourselves to catering and cleaning – consider IT, engineering, pest control, cellphone repair – anything. A small idea can grow into a multimillion-rand venture.”
She highlighted how foreign entrepreneurs profit from humble beginnings, like packaging spicy chips for daily sale, and encouraged women to replicate such ingenuity.
Lockmann urged Net Nine Nine and other partners to keep knocking on doors, drafting proposals, and connecting women with government agencies eager to help.
“We all share a mandate to uplift,” she said.
“This initiative must not end here.”
With its new store, Net Nine Nine has not only expanded fibre connectivity in Botshabelo – it has sparked a movement aimed at turning township women into the rock-solid foundation of a stronger, more prosperous local economy.
There is a guy, iv never met him only ever communicated over the phone, he was referred to me by my colleague, and the praises where true. He works for net 99 westonaria, Christopher Morobe. His customer service, his patience with you even when you loose temper. I give credit wer it’s due. This guy is in the right profession.. Christopher Morobe net 99 westonaria.
Neo S
After struggling for a few days to get my account up and running, contacted the call center and an agent by the name of Lesego, called me back and assisted promptly and within a few minutes I was sorted. Keep up the great service
Nicole
Nomfundo C
Petros
Yes my application for WiFi was excellent and the consultant by the name of Lesego Disetlhe was so nice and friendly.He explain everything to me and i was so satisfied with his service Nthabiseng M
Since being a customer of net nine nine I have had zero issues. They are always friendly, willing to assist, fast and so convenient. I hope the business grows and starts offering mobile contracts I will surely move over and make net nine nine my entire families network. A special thank you to Lilitha for always being willing to assist me, you make my life easier.
Net Nine Nine l really appreciate your saves and the way you solved out our problems when we need help. Lesego Disetlhe we really appreciate your kindness and well done you are doing the great job
Zaza Lee
I was particularly impressed by your patience and willingness to help me find exactly what I was looking for. Your dedication to delivering outstanding service is commendable. Thank you once again for your excellent service.
Dineo N
Hi Dineo Ndhlovu here, I spoke to 1 of your best consultants Nqobile Mathabela, she assisted me to the fullest I was at my most constant.... When we say you have a service provider we referring to her, she helped be with the payment link, and updating my banking details even arranged to call me back... And overall everytime I have an issue big or small Net99 shows up on time... Big up to yall...
GA-RANKUWA STEWARDS
Isaac Mothibi
Dimakatso Themba
Oupa Ramosepele CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686029135
KAGISO STEWARDS
Themba Manzie
Danny Letlhage
Itumeleng Menyatso CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686245586
MHLUZI STEWARDS
Pastor Thulani Sango
Hohannah Masilela
Duduzile Mthombeni CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686240553
KWA-GUQA STEWARDS
Musa Ncongwane
Ayanda Mathebula
Sbongile Skhosana CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686083885
WESTONARIA STEWARDS
Richard Nziyana Jacob Banda CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686177774
HAMMANSKRAAL STEWARDS
Neoyame Nthite Norman Maboa Paulos Mahlangu CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686360536
DELMAS STEWARDS
Sifiso Yekani CONTACT NUMBERS:
HENDRINA STEWARDS
Zama Bhengu
Thobani Mncube CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686240553
BETHAL STEWARDS
Khosi Motha
Sibongile Mthimunye CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686083885
ROCKLANDS STEWARDS
Thabo Thaane
Nthabiseng Mokobori
Antronica Sebidi CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686233711
THABONG STEWARDS
Disebo Makume
Sello Makonyane CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686163016
QWAQWA STEWARDS
Christian Ledimo
Khekhe Sekere CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686201618
Khotso Moleko
Tshepang Mahloko CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686201618
THABA-NCHU STEWARDS
Christian Ledimo
Khekhe Sekere CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686201618
BHEKUZULU STEWARDS
Lerato Modumaela
Danisile Mdlalose CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686029135
Andile Africander
Zuzile Mwanzi CONTACT NUMBERS: 0686177774
UMLAZI STEWARDS
Ndumiso Mkhize
Minenhle Ngubane Vuyani Radebe CONTACT NUMBERS:
MTHATHA STEWARDS
Siseko Mashalaba
Nomvuyo Mhlungu CONTACT NUMBERS:
RUSTENBURG STEWARDS
Masego Pelle CONTACT NUMBERS:
213 Utrecht Street, Vryheid, KwaZuluNatal, 3100
Reahola Shopping Centre, Shop 47B, Botshabelo, 9781
063 904 6471
robertn@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
087 245 0099
tshepo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
Erf 16914 Tlou St, Boitekong, Rustenburg, 0309
Botleng Mall, ERF 10665, Cnr, Bronkhorstspruit
068 607 2886
portiam@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
068 632 2464
williamr@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
Emhluzi Mall 2/3/4 of erf 12941
Mhluzi Middelburg.
068 633 7385
williamr@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
Shop 22 Rex Henderson & Paul Ave, 5 Ways mall
079 848 1955
robertn@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
6 Liebenberg Avenue, Gordan Centre, Bethal
068 649 2858 williamr@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
HAMMANSKRAAL
Renbro shopping centre, 39 Old Warmbaths road,
KWA-GUQA
Maqhibini Dr, KwaGuqa, Emalahleni, 1073
063 904 6471 ronnym@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
1122 Kgware road, Unit number 16
Gauteng 0208
31 Beukes St, Hendrina, Mpumalanga 1095
Shop M1, Mezzanine Level, Mall of Mthata
068 603 4533 williamr@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
Kagiso Mall Kagiso Dr, Krugersdorp
063 905 9556
tshepomo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
Kensworth Centre
Moshoeshoe St, Rocklands, A Phakathi Drive and, Nkoane Rd
Welkom, Freestate
063 903 3639 tshepo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
10115 Motloung Street, Kenzitown Freestate, 9869 07 Hoog Street, Bahlabani Centre, Thaba Nchu, 9780
068 636 0310 tshepo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
341 Griffiths Mnxege highway, shop 319
The Elizabeth Centre 8 Pres Kruger
063 905 9556 elsie@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
068 620 7611
ronnym@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
079 848 1955
williamr@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
068 644 4427
elsie@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
068 610 2629
tshepo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
087 245 0099
tshepo@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
068 932 1162
robertn@netninenine.co.za www.netninenine.co.za
