Professor Bruce Mellado, Executive Director of SACAQM
Compliments
of the season to all our clients!
This year is set to be a significant one for Evotel as we shift into a higher gear. Yip, 2025 marks Evotel’s 10th year in the telecommunications industry.
Can you believe it? Time flies!
Reaching a decade in the tough-as-teak FTTH (Fibre-to-the-Home) industry is no small feat. This milestone deserves to be celebrated, and it should inspire us to aim even higher. I invite you to join us on this journey.
Many companies have fallen by the wayside due to challenges ranging from Covid-19 to the declining South African economy. Yet, with your support, we’ve made it this far. This year, we’re pulling out all the stops to celebrate a decade of success.
Surviving this long in an industry saturated with mushrooming companies is an achievement in itself. Few will match our record, let alone surpass it.
And we’re still marching forward with our excellent service.
Since our establishment in 2015, when we built an independent network infrastructure to provide internet access in partnership with local communities and municipalities, More South Africans have been able to enjoy unlimited, uncapped internet from 48 internet service providers (ISPs).
Beyond homes, we’ve also brought Fibre- to-the-Business (FTTB) to thousands of households in affluent South African residential and office park estates – an achievement we’re incredibly proud of.
As of 2025, Evotel continues to deliver a stable and uncompromised fibre network to all South Africans.
Without a shadow of a doubt, our success is thanks to the dedication of our passionate and experienced C-Suite executives, whose aim is to provide reliable connectivity to everyone who needs it.
Our former General Manager, Bradley Bekker, once said, “Evotel means Fibre For Everyone” – and indeed, we are serving everyone. ISPs remain consistently satisfied with the service they receive from us as a Fibre Network Operator (FNO).
This year, we’re determined to make an even greater impact. Following our complete visual transformation, we’re embarking on an exhilarating journey that will make waves.
There’s light at the end of the tunnel! As part of our ongoing commitment to innovation, we’ve partnered with Wits University’s South African Atmospheric Quality Monitoring (SACAQM) initiative to monitor Gauteng’s air quality.
You might be wondering: what does this entail?
Through this partnership, SACAQM will supply cutting-edge, cost-effective Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. These advanced devices are designed to measure air pollution levels in real-time, providing critical data for analysis.
This AI technology has been developed with support from the Department of Science and Innovation, the National Research Foundation, iThemba LABS, the Canadian International Development Research Centre (IDRC), and in collaboration with the European laboratory CERN.
Evotel will play a central role in this initiative, leveraging our networks to ensure the project runs seamlessly (see inside for more details).
In our previous edition, I highlighted the importance of prioritising AI and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) as key drivers of the future.
Evotel is here for everyone who wants to connect – and that’s a fact.
Mathews Mpete
EVOTEL UP IN THE AIR!
HYGIENIC GAUTENG IS OUR PRIORITY!
South Africa’s most trusted and reliable fibre network operator, Evotel, is ensuring that its unlimited connectivity and robust infrastructure enable seamless operation of sensors as part of its partnership with the South African Atmospheric Quality Monitoring (SACAQM) initiative to monitor Gauteng’s air quality.
Evotel’s Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) Chief Executive, Albert Oosthuysen, expressed his delight in partnering with such a significant institution as SACAQM, saying he is “proud to support this vital initiative.”
“Together, we’re creating a healthier and more sustainable Gauteng,” said Oosthuysen.
According to research, 99% of people were found to breathe air that exceeded World Health Organisation (WHO) air quality guidelines in 2019.
“Each year, seven million people die prematurely from illnesses attributable to household air pollution caused by the incomplete combustion of solid fuels and oil used for cooking.
This includes more than 1.7 million child deaths worldwide annually,” the research revealed.
Through this collaboration, SACAQM will deploy cutting-edge, cost-effective Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology.
These advanced devices are designed to measure air pollution levels in real-time and provide critical data for analysis.
The AI technology has been developed with support from the Department of Science and Innovation, the National Research Foundation, iThemba LABS, and the Canadian International Development Research Centre (IDRC), in collaboration with the European Laboratory CERN.
extensive network infrastructure, enabling widespread deployment and ensuring efficient connectivity for data collection.
The AI solution includes advanced dashboards and data analytics powered by artificial intelligence. These tools help identify pollution hotspots and trends, empowering authorities and communities to take informed action.
“By working with Evotel, we’re taking a significant step forward in addressing air pollution challenges in Gauteng,” said Professor Bruce Mellado, Executive Director of SACAQM.
“This partnership allows us to make highquality environmental data accessible to all.” Gauteng faces increasing air pollution challenges due to rapid urbanisation and
implications, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Real-time monitoring helps identify areas most affected by pollution.
With reliable data, policymakers can implement targeted interventions to improve air quality.
SACAQM’s AI sensors are affordable and scalable.
They combine advanced technology with practical application, representing a new era in environmental monitoring.
This partnership highlights the critical role of technology in addressing environmental challenges.
It demonstrates how collaboration across sectors can drive innovative solutions.
Professor Bruce Mellado
Albert Oosthuysen
WE’RE HERE TO HELP YOU BRIDGE THE DIGITAL DIVIDE!
In the digital age, an unlimited internet connection is more than just a convenience – it is a critical enabler of progress and opportunity for those looking to the future.
For South Africans, access to unlimited internet has become increasingly important in bridging gaps in education, entrepreneurship, and employment.
As we step into 2025, the benefits of this resource extend far beyond simple connectivity, increasing the potential to thrive in various aspects of life. That’s why Evotel is essential for every household and business.
The global shift towards remote work has opened up new opportunities for South Africans to participate in a globalised workforce. Unlimited internet ensures that individuals can seamlessly collaborate with teams across the world, attend virtual meetings, and manage projects without the fear of running out of data.
This is particularly significant in South Africa, where high commuting costs and infrastructure challenges make remote work an attractive option. Unlimited internet allows professionals to access cloud-based tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom, ensuring productivity and efficiency.
Additionally, it enables individuals to take up freelance opportunities on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal, which require consistent and reliable internet access.
By breaking down geographical barriers, unlimited internet empowers South Africans to compete in the global job market.
Education and self-improvement are crucial for personal and professional growth, and the internet is a treasure trove of resources for learning.With an unlimited connection, South Africans can access free and affordable courses on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy.
These platforms offer training in fields ranging from coding and digital marketing to graphic design and entrepreneurship, equipping individuals with skills that are in high demand.
Beyond formal courses, unlimited internet provides access to a wealth of knowledge through e-books, webinars, and online communities.
It also enables continuous learning via podcasts, YouTube tutorials, and open educational resources.
For students and professionals alike, the ability to learn without worrying about data limits is a gamechanger, especially in a country where access to traditional educational resources can be limited.
Entrepreneurship is a cornerstone of economic growth, and unlimited internet is a powerful tool for aspiring business owners. In South Africa, where small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a critical role in job creation, the ability to harness digital tools can make or break a business.
Unlimited internet access enables entrepreneurs to create and manage websites, engage with customers on social media, and utilise e-commerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce.
It also facilitates market research, competitor analysis, and the development of innovative business models.
Furthermore, platforms like LinkedIn and networking forums provide entrepreneurs with opportunities to connect with mentors, investors, and collaborators.
Digital marketing is another area where unlimited internet proves invaluable.
Entrepreneurs can run targeted ad campaigns, analyse performance metrics, and engage with customers in real time. These capabilities are essential for building a business that thrives in a competitive market.
By reducing barriers to entry, unlimited internet empowers South Africans to turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Job seekers in South Africa face significant challenges, including high unemployment rates and limited access to opportunities.
Unlimited internet can play a pivotal role in addressing these issues by connecting individuals with job boards, recruitment platforms, and online applications.
Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn offer numerous opportunities for South Africans to find employment locally and internationally.
Additionally, unlimited internet allows job seekers to enhance their CVs with digital certifications and showcase their skills on professional platforms. It also facilitates virtual interviews, which are becoming increasingly common in the hiring process.
For those in rural areas, where traditional job opportunities may be scarce, an unlimited internet connection can open doors to remote work and online freelancing.
While the benefits of unlimited internet are clear, it is important to address the digital divide that still exists in South Africa.
High data costs and limited infrastructure in rural areas remain significant barriers. Policymakers and private companies must work together to ensure affordable and widespread access to unlimited internet, enabling more South Africans to unlock its potential.
As South Africa embraces 2025, the importance of unlimited internet cannot be overstated.
From enabling remote work and fostering self-improvement to driving entrepreneurship and expanding employment opportunities, an unlimited internet connection is a catalyst for growth and empowerment.
By investing in this resource, individuals and communities can take significant steps toward a brighter, more connected future.
BECAUSE THE WORLD DOESN’T STOP, AND NEITHER DO WE
At Home Connect Fibre, we know that life doesn’t wait. That’s why our network is built to keep you connected no matter what. Whether it’s for work, learning, or simply catching up with loved ones, we deliver ultra-reliable, high-speed fibre internet right to your door.
STAY
CONNECTED TO THE THINGS THAT MATTER, UNINTERRUPTED.
Discover the power of reliable connection at Home Connect
www.home-connect.co.za
MAMPHUTI DRIVEN TO FINANCIAL FREEDOM!
Employee of the month for December
This month, we’re proud to recognise the effervescent Mamphuti Mtshweni from our finance team.
Mamphuti describes herself as an “independent woman who loves people and travelling, with a strong personality, very caring, dedicated, and always thriving— especially when helping others”.
With her ancestral umbilical cord having fallen in Tembisa, Ekurhuleni, Mamphuti was voted by her Evotel colleagues as our December Employee of the Month. This achievement was awarded to a hardworking team player who has shown, beyond reasonable doubt, that she’s the best.
Having joined the fastest-growing fibre company in June 2022, Mamphuti aspires to take on a managerial role within the organisation, “leading and driving innovative projects while applying my leadership skills”. You go, girl!
When asked about her plans for the new year and any specific goals she has set for herself over the next 12 months, she shared that she plans to continue studying, as “I believe in education”.
“I’ve realised that in our industry, mainly fibre telecommunications, you never stop learning. You learn something new every day, which requires you to stay on top of your game,” she explained.
Reflecting on her educational journey and achievements, the energetic Mamphuti confessed she never imagined working in the finance industry, as she initially studied Tourism Management.
“But, boom, life happened,” she said with a laugh.
“I started as an admin coordinator at Evotel, knowing nothing about finance. I took it one step at a time, learning everything from processing invoices, requisitions, and reconciliations, until I mastered the entire process. Today, I hold a qualification in Financial Management.”
Her advice to colleagues in the finance space is simple yet powerful: focus, don’t be too hard on yourself, and take things one step at a time.
She concluded by expressing her gratitude to those who appreciate her hard work and voted for her to win
