DBSA and NPC outline broadband expansion strategy to 2035

The Development Bank of Southern Africa, working alongside the National Planning Commission, has finalised South Africa’s Digital Connectivity Investment Roadmap to 2035

This extensive study evaluates the country’s progress toward universal high-speed broadband and outlines the level of investment needed to meet connectivity goals over the next decade.

The roadmap highlights key funding gaps, priority interventions and collaboration opportunities necessary to expand dependable broadband access and support the country’s transition to a more inclusive digital economy.

At its core, the research converts national digital policy objectives into a structured, costed and fiscally aligned investment plan for Digital Connectivity Infrastructure. It aligns with major frameworks including the National Development Plan Vision 2030, SA Connect, the National Infrastructure Plan 2050 and the Sustainable Development Goals.

"This roadmap provides the country with a current, comprehensive, costed view of what is required to bridge the digital divide and achieve universal access to digital connectivity by 2035. It outlines a common, evidence-informed basis for coordinated planning across the public and private sector, in order to drive investment and delivery of the roadmap,” commented Commissioner Mark Swilling from the NPC.

From a methodological standpoint, the study incorporates the World Bank’s Beyond the Gap framework together with the International Telecommunication Union’s Universal and Meaningful Connectivity standards. Using scenario modelling and GIS-based spatial analysis, it maps connectivity gaps, while also estimating both capital and operational expenditure under varying economic and policy conditions.

The report adopts a broad ecosystem perspective, reviewing infrastructure layers such as international connectivity, backbone and metro networks, data centres, spectrum systems and last-mile access. It also recognises affordability, digital skills and institutional capacity as essential factors in achieving meaningful connectivity. Reaching universal high-speed access of 100 Mbps will depend on targeted infrastructure upgrades, a diversified mix of technologies and increased investment in rural areas, while affordability remains the biggest barrier driven by income constraints.

“South Africa’s Digital Connectivity Investment Roadmap to 2035 goes beyond policy to deliver a clear implementation framework spanning spectrum reform, municipal capacity, digital skills, universal service, and demand-side support,” stated Boitumelo Mosako, CEO of the DBSA. By clarifying institutional roles and strengthening intergovernmental coordination, the study establishes a practical platform for execution.

To guide implementation, the roadmap presents three defined investment pathways for the period 2025 to 2035:

• A mobile-centric, least-cost model suited to constrained economic conditions
• A hybrid approach combining mobile and fibre to balance performance and cost efficiency
• A fibre-led, high-capacity model aligned with economic recovery and long-term competitiveness

Each pathway outlines trade-offs between public spending, service ambitions, technology choices and expected economic returns. The study also evaluates funding approaches, including public investment, public-private partnerships and blended finance, alongside reforms aimed at reducing deployment barriers and encouraging private sector participation.

Overall, the roadmap provides a practical, evidence-based framework to achieve universal and meaningful connectivity, now requiring coordinated action to fully realise its potential for inclusive growth, improved services and long-term resilience.