Vodacom invests US$34.7mn to expand rural digital access in Mpumalanga

Vodacom Mpumalanga is taking decisive steps to advance digital inclusion by allocating R620 million (approx. US$34.7mn) towards its network for the current financial year

This investment is aimed at enhancing network infrastructure and expanding connectivity, especially in deep rural and township communities, underscoring Vodacom's commitment to building a digitally inclusive society.

In the 2024–2025 financial year, the region had already invested more than R400 million, and for 2025–2026, it is committing an additional R620 million to extend broadband coverage across the province. This brings the total investment to over R1 billion (approx. US$56mn) in two years—part of Vodacom's long-term goal to provide the most extensive and reliable network for all South Africans, regardless of location.

Given Mpumalanga’s challenging terrain and remoteness, Vodacom is intensifying its 4G and 5G site deployment using licensed spectrum (L700, L1800, and L2100) to enhance coverage and capacity in underserved areas. The province now hosts over 1,300 mobile infrastructure sites, 41% of which are connected to high-speed fibre, enabling faster and more stable internet access for homes, schools, businesses, and government institutions.

The investment also covers mobile network boosters, upgraded transmission technology, and backup power systems designed to address issues arising from Eskom’s grid instability, vandalism, and theft.

“Data traffic in Mpumalanga has increased by over 42% year-on-year, with 90% of this carried over 4G. As demand grows, Vodacom's network investment is not only improving connectivity for its customers in the region but laying the groundwork for a more inclusive digital economy. By increasing coverage and capacity, we can ensure that all our customers can be empowered by technology, whether that is access to education and essential services, or helping the growth of enterprises, from SMEs to the public sector, through transformative digital solutions,” commented Monde Ngcukana, managing executive for Vodacom Mpumalanga Region.

In parallel with infrastructure upgrades, Vodacom is addressing affordability challenges, such as the cost of devices and data, which can hinder digital participation. Its Easy2Own initiative promotes smartphone access through a flexible financing model where customers pay an initial deposit and repay in manageable instalments. In July, in celebration of Mandela Day, Vodacom launched its R67 smartphone campaign in selected stores nationwide, including Mpumalanga. This initiative supports the transition from basic phones to 4G-enabled devices. Meanwhile, personalised data offers—Just 4 You and Just 4 Your Town—use individual usage patterns and location data to reduce connectivity costs.

Vodacom’s smart solutions are also enabling better public service delivery across Mpumalanga. The SmartGov Platform digitises administrative processes, increasing real-time transparency. With the SmartCitizen Engagement app, residents can log service issues, which government teams can address more efficiently via multi-channel contact centres and mobile-enabled teams. Smart Utilities tools improve billing accuracy for water and electricity, while SmartPlaces and SmartBuildings enhance energy efficiency, environmental monitoring, and security. Smart Asset Management further assists local authorities with predictive maintenance and improved audit outcomes.

To stimulate the local economy, Vodacom supports Mpumalanga’s SMEs through Vodacom Business, which provides data bundles and digital tools such as cloud hosting, cybersecurity, POS systems, and IoT technologies. For those needing financing, VodaLend offers flexible loans of up to R5 million, disbursed within 24 hours and with no collateral or early settlement penalties.

Internally, Vodacom Mpumalanga also prioritises local partnerships by working with community-based contractors and security companies, many of whom contribute directly to network deployment and benefit from job creation initiatives.

“By removing barriers to access and partnering with government and business, we are giving the people of Mpumalanga the tools to learn, work, innovate, grow and connect to a better future,” concluded Ngcukana.