BRIDGING DATA GAPS FOR UNIVERSAL AND MEANINGFUL CONNECTIVITY!
As we round off the year and look back at what we have achieved as a country in the telecommunications sector, I am sorry to say that we haven’t achieved much except having raised hopes of everyone who cares to listen.
The Department of Communication and Digital Technologies has been a hive of activity since Malatsi took charge, but we cannot discard and ignore Gungubele’s achievements of having launched the first Artificial Intelligence (AI) research centre in Auckland Park – it was a big call.
Like they say, history will judge us, but in a positive way, and government will be judged harshly – you see what I’ve done there, hey?
Everything we do as a collective in life must be judged.
But for all of us to mend our ways, with government’s involvement, it’s my wish that Malatsi and Gungubele attend the 47th African Telecommunications Union/Information and communication technology summit in Nairobi, Kenya on 7 December.
This event is annually organised by the African Telecommunications Development in a conference and that is an awareness of where we review 2024 and preview 2025.
It is more like a family meeting or a departmental bosberaad.
This is more to prepare for the annual World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) on 17 May next year where focus will be on Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development.
The purpose of the Society Day (WTISD) is to help raise awareness of the possibilities that the use of the Internet and other Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) can bring to societies and economies, as well as of ways to bridge the digital divide.
Just a bit of history and background, the origins of the Society Day dates back to the signing of the First International Telegraph Convention on 17 May 1865, which marked the establishment of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
In November 2005, the World Summit on the Information Society was called upon the UN General Assembly to declare 17 May as World Information Society Day to focus on the importance of ICT and the wide range of issues related to the Information Society raised by WSIS.
But next year’s Society Day will be preceded by a pre-briefing of the Society Day on 7 April to 9 April at the Republic of Azerbaijan where all members will be given the opportunity to add or seek more clarity on certain developments within the sector.
This is the reason I am hoping that our telecommunications principals in South Africa would form part of the quorum and learn more on what we can do to surpass other African countries like Egypt, Tunisia, Rwanda and Kenya who have prioritised telecoms.
POVERTY-STRICKEN UPINGTON COUNTS ON EVOTEL!
Evotel is more than just a service provider in Upington; it’s a beacon of hope for the future.
Situated approximately 800 kilometres from Johannesburg, the people of Upington rely heavily on government jobs, agriculture, and tourism.
Beyond these industries, however, the community often feels isolated, positioned over 400 kilometres from the Northern Cape’s capital, Kimberley.
In this context, alcohol and drugs have become common pastimes, with children as young as 14 in Grade 7 justifying their use of marijuana – a substance they claim helps them “meditate and feel happy” while providing a temporary escape from poverty.
For many residents, an internet connection seemed like a luxury reserved for major cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town.
But this perception is changing, thanks to Evotel. Recognising Upington’s potential, Evotel has brought the fastest broadband connection to the area, proving that even a financially strained community on the banks of the Orange River is worthy of such a development.
Now, the once disconnected town is enjoying the benefits of high-speed internet, with Evotel leading as the Fibreto-the-Home (FTTH) provider in the region. While neighbouring farmlands still lack proper network coverage, Upington is becoming a hub for connectivity, offering residents the tools to transform their lives. This newfound access to the internet also brings hope for tourism, as visitors can stay connected without worry.
A Town of Contrasts
Despite its challenges, Upington is not all doom and gloom. The town is a mix of densely impoverished townships and more affluent suburbs, with the “haves” residing closer to the city centre in comfort and luxury, and the “have-nots” living on the dry outskirts of the Oranje City.
Afrikaans and isiXhosa are the dominant languages spoken in the area. When entering Upington, one is greeted by groups of unemployed youth roaming the streets – a stark reminder of the community’s struggles.
With an estimated 60% unemployment rate among young adults and an overall provincial unemployment rate of 32.4%, it is no surprise that the alcohol trade thrives, with taverns present on nearly every street.
Evotel’s Positive Impact
Evotel has employed over 30 young people from the area, while local business owners have received contracts to install and maintain the fibre infrastructure. These efforts have brought significant change to many lives in Upington, where poverty continues to grow. Contractors are also required to hire locals, a move applauded by the government, which struggles to provide sufficient employment opportunities.
When an Evotel-branded vehicle passes through the streets, it is not uncommon for residents to flag it down to inquire about job opportunities – a testament to the community’s desire to work and escape their circumstances.
Bridging the Digital Divide
A visit to local public schools revealed the eagerness of learners to engage with technology, despite the absence of computer labs and a curriculum that excludes 4IR (Fourth Industrial Revolution) or AI education. Schools like Franciscus Intermediate and I/S Oranje Oewer, located on Keimoes Road, are undergoing renovations, with hopes of establishing technology labs that will prepare learners for the internetdriven future.
Lionel Josephs, principal of Oranje Oewer, expressed gratitude to Evotel for providing free internet access to his school during the renovations.
“At times, you feel left out in the cold,” Josephs said. “We’re so far removed from the development happening in Gauteng. We try our best, but it’s difficult to keep up. Reliable internet is essential if we want to achieve our goals. The department advises us to have technology teachers, but without the necessary tools, it’s a challenge. Evotel’s support is a game-changer for us.”
Andries Esau, deputy principal at Franciscus, echoed these sentiments, voicing concerns about the disparity in education standards between Northern Cape and other provinces.
“In the future, learners from remote areas like ours will struggle to compete with those from major cities. Technology is the key to the future, and Evotel’s contribution to our schools and community is invaluable,” said Esau from his Upington Extension office.
Community Challenges Remain
Even the Rosedale Police Station lacks internet connectivity, with officers forced to rely on their own means. When asked about the community’s drug problems, officers acknowledged the challenges but maintained that crime levels in Upington are lower than in other South African townships. Substance abuse, however, remains a pressing concern.
An officer remarked, “Crime here is far less than in other townships because we work hard to manage it.”
Evotel’s arrival in Upington offers a glimmer of hope for a better future. By empowering the community with internet connectivity and job opportunities, they are proving that even the most overlooked areas can thrive with the right support.
ACCESS TO INTERNET IS EDUCATION
While South Africa’s developed cities focus on high-speed broadband and the rollout of 5G networks, Postmasburg, in the Northern Cape, lagged behind in basic infrastructure— until Evotel stepped in.
By introducing fibre internet to the Tsantsabane Municipality, known for its manganese production, Evotel has significantly improved connectivity in the township.
Despite the initial rollout of fibre benefiting residents, schools in the area remained overlooked, struggling to access this vital resource.
However, this is changing as schools are now starting to reap the benefits of connectivity, thanks to Evotel’s efforts.
Evotel began its school connectivity campaign gradually, providing a gigabyte of bandwidth to aggregate demand across Postmasburg schools.
Today, this project is expanding, with an increasing number of institutions gaining reliable internet access.
Partnering with various Internet Service Providers (ISPs), Evotel recently connected Postdene Primary School and Laerskool Asmadia.
These schools now join over 200 educational facilities across South Africa that enjoy free internet services provided by Evotel.
A Lifeline for Rural Schools
This initiative, which began before the COVID-19 pandemic, initially aimed to connect schools in urban areas.
However, the focus has since shifted to include rural regions like the Northern Cape and Rustenburg, which are now benefiting from Evotel’s commitment to bridging the digital divide.
A teacher at Postmasburg High School, who preferred to remain anonymous due to policy restrictions, described how internet connectivity has transformed their teaching environment.
ACCESS TO EDUCATION!
“Access to the internet is access to education.
This isn’t just a space for entertainment; we use it as an educational tool.
The internet provides us with videos and songs that make learning easier and more engaging for the children,” the teacher said proudly.
During a tour of the school, the Evotel team observed an interactive lesson where internet-connected laptops were being used to teach students.
The teacher also highlighted how connectivity helps compensate for shortages in traditional resources, such as stationery, and broadens the scope of available educational content.
Connectivity as a Community Asset
Strengthening internet access in schools could also provide connectivity to surrounding communities, according to a suggestion by the African Telecommunication Union during a session in Rwanda.
“Offering community hotspots with free connectivity could be another solution.
Starting with computers and internet access, other underserved communities in developing countries can follow similar steps, advancing towards meaningful universal connectivity one school at a time,” the union noted in a statement.
Meanwhile, the World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) have adopted a resolution encouraging global efforts to “connect every school to the internet and every young person to information and communication technology services.”
Evotel’s contributions to Postmasburg’s schools not only enhance the quality of education but also serve as a model for rural connectivity initiatives across South Africa.
By empowering schools with reliable internet, Evotel is helping to unlock the full potential of education in underserved areas and paving the way for a brighter, more connected future.
POLICE SAFEGUARDS US AGAINST IZINYOKA!
Evotel’s infrastructure in Upington is in safe hands, according to Anacia Petrus from the Rosedale SAPS.
The poverty-stricken township relies heavily on Evotel’s network for internet connectivity, and the Rosedale SAPS has committed to protecting this vital infrastructure from criminal activities.
Although Petrus noted she is not officially authorised to speak on behalf of the station, she shared that protecting Evotel’s network from vandalism has become a priority.
She was proud to report that, to date, there have been no serious incidents of damage to the network.
While the police station itself is not connected to Evotel’s network due to government restrictions, many SAPS employees have opted for Evotel’s service at home.
They have personally experienced the benefits of a fast and reliable internet connection.
“It would have been ideal to have Evotel at our station, but we respect the government’s restrictions. However, as private clients, we can vouch for the importance of a stable broadband connection,” said Petrus.
Addressing Potential Risks
Unemployment in Upington remains a concern, and the police fear that some individuals might attempt to tamper with the network infrastructure, hoping to sell cables for scrap.
However, Evotel has clarified through public education efforts that fibre optic cables are made of glass and have no copper, making them worthless to scrapyards.
“It’s essential to educate the public about this. Prevention is better than cure, and masterclasses on the value and maintenance of fibre networks would go a long way in stopping any attempts at vandalism,” Petrus said. She added that Upington has not reported significant cases of cable theft or damage thus far.
The Upington SAPS Community Policing Forum (CPF) has also been proactive in supporting Evotel.
At a recent community engagement event, Evotel’s Chief of Staff, Nicholus Thipe, and Regional Manager, Lefa Mona, addressed residents about the importance of internet connectivity and the need to protect the network.
A Friend to the Community
Mona emphasised Evotel’s commitment to the people of Upington.
“Evotel is a friend to this community, and we hope the same respect will be extended to us as a Fibre Network Operator (FNO). It’s vital that every household gets connected to Evotel,” he said.
Mona also highlighted the reliability of Evotel’s network and the importance of preventing outages.
“Our team operates 24 hours a day, and our agents are always available to assist with sign-ups and resolve any issues. However, network stability relies on everyone respecting the infrastructure.
Even though we respond to outages within 72 hours, it’s better to avoid disruptions altogether,” he explained.
National Commitments
Across the country, police departments have pledged to protect Evotel’s infrastructure through their CPFs. In Rustenburg, for instance, bimonthly meetings include Evotel representatives, who update the community on developments and reinforce collaboration.
However, occasional outages in areas like Lenasia and Ennerdale have been attributed to municipal contractors inadvertently damaging fibre cables while servicing infrastructure.
Despite these challenges, Evotel responds promptly to minimise inconvenience, particularly for clients working from home, running businesses, attending virtual meetings, or studying remotely.
Innovative Offers
Evotel continues to make internet access affordable.
During its recent Black Friday campaign, the company offered a special package for R99 per month at 10Mbps for the first six months of a 24-month contract.
This promotion, which ends on 30 November 2024, is just one of the ways Evotel is making connectivity accessible.
As a premium Fibre Network Operator, Evotel provides truly unlimited, unshaped, and uncapped internet through a choice of 48 Internet Service Providers (ISPs). Other offerings include:
• 75/75Mbps: Ideal for eight devices and two people working from home.
• 30/30Mbps: Suitable for five devices and one home office.
• 10/2Mbps: Connects up to four devices with one home office user.
• 850/850Mbps: The ultimate package for unlimited internet and lightning-fast downloads.
Evotel’s dedication to reliable connectivity and community upliftment continues to position it as a leader in fibre internet across South Africa.
Discover the power of reliable connection at Home Connect
www.home-connect.co.za
BECAUSE THE WORLD DOESN’T STOP, AND NEITHER DO WE STAY CONNECTED TO THE THINGS THAT MATTER, UNINTERRUPTED.
At Home Connect Fibre, we know that life doesn’t wait. That’s is built to keep you connected no matter what. Whether it’s or simply catching up with loved ones, we deliver ultra-reliable, internet right to your door.
An IP address that remains constant and doesn’t change over time. Assigned manually or by your ISP and is unique to your device or network.
• Dynamic IP Address:
An IP address that changes periodically.
Automatically assigned by a DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server whenever you connect to the network.
1
Key Differences
When to Choose a Dynamic IP
• Casual Use: Ideal for general activities like browsing, streaming, and online gaming.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Dynamic IPs are included in most standard ISP packages.
• Improved Security: Changing IP addresses make it harder for potential attackers to target you.
This depends on your specific needs and how you intend to use your internet connection. Here’s a breakdown of the differences and factors to consider:
Key Differences
When to Choose a Static IP
• Hosting Services: If you’re running a web server, email server, or any service that requires a consistent address.
• Remote Access: Needed for accessing devices like CCTV cameras, home automation systems, or servers remotely.
• VPN and Security: Essential for some business-grade VPN setups or secure networks.
3
• Custom DNS Setup: If you use custom Domain Name System (DNS) configurations. 4
Conclusion
• Choose a static IP if you run servers, need remote access, or require consistent connectivity for business purposes.
• Opt for a dynamic IP if you use the internet for everyday activities, prioritize security, or want a cost-effective solution.
AFRICA MUST COLLABORATE ON DIGITAL GROWTH, NOT COMPETE!
African countries must prioritise collaboration over competition to ensure the continent’s young population is connected and equipped to participate in the digital economy.
This was the key message from John Omo, secretary-general of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU), during the Ministerial Forum at AfricaCom 2024.
Omo highlighted the transformative shift happening in Africa, where the number of internet users now exceeds 600 million—representing an internet penetration rate of about 42%.
“While there has been growth, it’s still far below the international average of 66%,” Omo explained.
“This highlights the need for further initiatives to bridge the digital divide.”
Challenges and Opportunities
Omo emphasised that while opportunities in the digital economy are vast, significant challenges remain.
“We must identify both the opportunities and obstacles, and work together to overcome them,” he said.
One major challenge is the lack of electricity in many areas, which severely limits access to digital technologies.
The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) notes that only 23% of rural residents in Africa, including South Africa, have internet access, compared to 57% in urban areas.
Regulatory barriers further exacerbate these issues, deterring investment in connectivity, particularly in underserved rural regions.
Despite these challenges, Omo remains optimistic: “Collaboration is key. Too often, we compete instead of working together, which undermines initiatives that could propel us forward as a continent.”
He called for more dialogue, resource sharing, and partnerships between governments and telecommunications operators.
The ATU, in collaboration with the ITU, has already made strides in improving access to communication tools, including reclaiming radio frequencies.
For example, more than 18,000 FM channels have been freed up for use.
Pictured: Hover Gao
Empowering Africa’s Youth
Africa boasts the world’s youngest population, which Omo sees as a tremendous opportunity. “This is our greatest potential,” he said. “But we must provide opportunities for our youth, and digital technology is the key.”
He stressed the importance of remaining focused, adding, “A lot has been accomplished, but much more needs to be done to bridge the divides we still face.”
The Role of Technology in Africa’s Future
Hover Gao, president of Huawei Sub-Saharan Africa, echoed Omo’s sentiments, identifying digitalisation, intelligence, and decarbonisation as the three imperatives shaping the global future.
“We see vibrant opportunities in sub-Saharan Africa,” Gao said. “Prosperity, inclusivity, and sustainability are the core values we must pursue.”
Huawei recommends collaboration in three critical areas:
Data:
A vital resource in the intelligent age. Gao noted that artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to add trillions to Africa’s economy by 2030, lifting 11 million people out of poverty each year.
Cloud Solutions:
National cloud platforms could reduce access costs while enhancing the availability of government services.
Sustainability:
Renewable energy, particularly solar power, can play a pivotal role in addressing Africa’s energy gap, especially in rural areas.
Gao pointed out that Africa already leads in solar installations and has enormous potential for micro-grids to provide affordable energy.
Lessons from China
Drawing parallels with China’s journey from an industrialisation latecomer to a global digital leader, Gao encouraged Africa to embrace similar strategies.
“Just as roads have driven economic growth in the past, cloud, IoT, and electricity are the ‘roads’ of the AI era,” Gao said.
“These will connect individuals and countries to greater opportunities.”
He added, “China is eager to share its experiences and work closely with Africa to contribute to a sustainable digital economy.”
A Collaborative Future
Both Omo and Gao agree that Africa’s success lies in partnerships.
By working together, African countries can create a connected, empowered, and digitally enabled future for the continent’s youth and beyond.
Pictured: John Omo
STREAMING
So You Want to Be a Streamer?
HERE’S WHY FIBRE-OPTIC INTERNET IS YOUR BEST ALLY
The world of streaming is thrilling, dynamic, and—let’s be real—challenging. Whether you aim to entertain with your skills, share your journey, or build a supportive community, becoming a successful streamer requires more than just talent.
One of the most critical tools in your arsenal is a fast and reliable internet connection. And when it comes to meeting the demands of streaming, nothing compares to fibre-optic internet.
Why Internet Quality Matters
Streaming is the heart of content creation. From broadcasting live to interacting with your audience in real-time, streaming requires a connection that can handle high-definition video and audio without interruptions.
The stakes are high: a lagging stream or buffering issues can frustrate your viewers and affect your reputation as a streamer. Fibre-optic internet provides the speed and stability you need to keep your stream running smoothly, ensuring your audience stays engaged and entertained.
The Power of Symmetrical Speeds
Fibre-optic internet is renowned for its symmetrical upload and download speeds. This feature is a gamechanger for streamers. Upload speed is critical for transmitting high-quality video and audio to your streaming platform, while download speed ensures your activities aren’t hindered by lag.
Whether you’re showcasing competitive gameplay, sharing creative projects, or hosting live discussions, fibre ensures that your performance isn’t affected by connectivity issues. It also enables you to stream in higher resolutions, such as 1080p or even 4K, giving your viewers the best possible experience.
Seamless Interaction with Your Community
A big part of being a successful streamer is engaging with your audience. Whether you’re responding to chat messages, hosting Q&A sessions, or collaborating with other creators, real-time interaction is key.
Fibre-optic internet ensures minimal latency, so your responses to audience comments are near-instant. It also supports smooth voice and video calls for collaborations, allowing you to expand your network and create more exciting content.
Reliability Under Pressure
The last thing you want during a live stream is a sudden disconnect or drop in quality. Fibre-optic internet is highly reliable, with fewer disruptions compared to traditional broadband or mobile data.
This stability means you can focus on your content and audience without worrying about technical hiccups.
As your channel grows and you gain more viewers, reliability becomes even more critical. A dependable fibre connection ensures you’re always ready to deliver the best streaming experience, even during peak usage times.
Cost-Effective for Serious Streamers
Starting out as a streamer often involves balancing quality with affordability. While fibre-optic internet might seem like a premium option, its uncapped data plans and long-term reliability make it cost-effective for streamers who need consistent, high-speed internet.
Plus, fibre’s bandwidth allows you to stream, download updates, and even multitask online simultaneously, all without compromising performance.
A Solid Foundation for Growth
Streaming is competitive, and success demands dedication, creativity, and the right tools. A fibre-optic internet connection gives you the speed, stability, and quality you need to stand out in the streaming world.
From smoother broadcasts to uninterrupted streams and seamless audience engagement, fibre is your ally in creating a channel that keeps viewers coming back for
Pictured: Jacques from Buffel Gaming
EARLY CHRISTMAS GIFT FOR THE VIVACIOUS MABILETSA!
Employee of the month for October
Marita Gladys Mabiletsa received an early Christmas gift from her colleagues when she least expected it.
The vivacious workaholic from Mofolo, Soweto, was named Evotel’s Employee of the Month for October, an honour she says she will cherish throughout her career.
Mabiletsa, who works in the Retentions Department, joined the Fibre-to-the-Home network operator in 2022 after transitioning from a career in the medical field.
“You have no idea how I’m feeling right now,” said a composed but clearly elated Mabiletsa, who vows to continue giving her best.
This award is given to employees who go above and beyond their duties. Winners are selected through votes cast by their peers at Evotel, and in October, Mabiletsa’s name topped the list.
Reflecting on her journey, she shared, “Joining Evotel was an amazing experience. I never thought I’d last this long because it was my first time working in the telecommunications industry. But here I am, and this award is proof that my efforts are being noticed.”
A Newfound Drive
“Such awards inspire you to dream bigger and push towards the next milestone. It was unexpected, but I’m so glad my colleagues appreciate my work. Now, I feel even more motivated to work harder,” she added.
“For me, the sky is the limit. I’m determined to grow within the company and achieve more. In life, we often fear challenges we don’t understand, but that only holds us back. You need to trust yourself and embrace learning every day. A supportive team at work can truly transform your life.”
Mabiletsa admitted that her two years at Evotel have been a rewarding experience, but she’s not stopping here. She’s determined to climb the corporate ladder and expand her horizons within the company.
A Tough but Fulfilling Role
Her role in the Retentions Department is not for the fainthearted. Dealing with challenging clients is a daily reality, requiring patience, strong communication skills, and a cool head—all traits that Mabiletsa exemplifies.
“We interact with irate clients every day,” she explained. “Some want to leave us, but it’s our job to help them see the value of staying with Evotel. When I joined, I had a basic understanding of fibre internet, which isn’t the case for many of our clients.”
She continued, “Part of our role involves educating clients about how a Fibre Network Operator (FNO) works in partnership with Internet Service Providers (ISPs).
It’s like being a teacher—you have to clarify the differences and address their frustrations while retaining their business.
“There are easy-going clients and very difficult ones, but it’s my responsibility to empathise with their concerns and ensure Evotel keeps their loyalty. Sometimes, I have to address mistakes made by us or the ISP. It can be tough initially, but it gets easier with time and experience.”
A Bright Future Ahead
Mabiletsa’s unwavering dedication, resilience, and ability to connect with clients make her a shining star at Evotel. Her colleagues’ recognition is well-deserved, and her inspiring outlook promises a future filled with even greater accomplishments.
