Vodacom’s Eastern Cape division has disclosed that, in the fiscal year 2025–2026, it will invest over R400 million in the region’s network.
According to the network operator, the investment demonstrates its dedication to boosting capacity, increasing coverage, and empowering deep rural communities throughout the province.
“This investment will drive the rollout of advanced technologies, including 4G and 5G, and extend connectivity to underserved rural areas,” said Vodacom.
R87 million for network capacity expansion, R38 million for network modernisation
Vodacom has set aside more than R87 million for network capacity expansion and R38 million for network modernisation to enable 4G and 5G.
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“Over R8 million will go towards core network upgrades to support network infrastructure needs. Transmission infrastructure investment for the 2025 financial year stands at over R51 million,” it said.
The business claims that increasing coverage is still a top priority for its Eastern Cape operations, and it plans to invest R100 million in several municipalities, including: Great Kei, Nyandeni, Mhlonto, Mbizana, Matatiele, Mnquma, Ntabankulu, Ngqushwa and Umzimvubu
“The region also plans to enhance existing coverage while providing new coverage for both the private and public sectors, supporting economic development in the province,” said Vodacom.
“Advanced technologies, including 5G, will be rolled out in Amahlathi, Elundini, Enoch Mgijima, Engcobo, Ingquza Hill, Inxuba Yethemba, King Sabata Dalindyebo, Makana and Engcobo municipalities.”
Upgraded network to meet Eastern Cape’s increasing need for enhanced connectivity
Zakhele Jiyane, managing executive at Vodacom Eastern Cape, claims that the network investment will help meet the province’s increasing need for better connectivity.
As a result, more communities can take advantage of dependable, fast voice and data services.
“By expanding 4G and 5G coverage, particularly in remote and rural areas, we are driving our goal of building an inclusive digital society,” said Jiyane.
According to Vodacom Eastern Cape, it addresses affordability barriers that keep many people from fully engaging in the digital economy to improve digital inclusion further.
This includes its “Just 4 You” and “Just 4 Your Town” platforms, which offer customised offers based on the customer’s location and behaviour, allowing them to connect at a reduced cost.
“Through Vodacom’s Easy2Own initiative, customers in the Eastern Cape can access smartphones via an affordable device financing model which costs as little as R6.50 per day,” said Vodacom.
Customers can switch from 2G and 3 G devices to 4G and 5G-capable phones
Thanks to this, customers can switch from 2G and 3G devices to 4G and 5G-capable phones, contributing to the region’s growing smartphone penetration.
Additionally, Vodacom has partnered with technology companies and the Eastern Cape Development Corporation to give young people in the area access to digital skills.
“In partnership with AWS, Microsoft, Skillsoft, and other organisations, Vodacom seeks to close the digital skills gap across eight African nations and to upskill more than one million young people by 2027,” it said.
“Through sustained investment and innovation, Vodacom Eastern Cape is making a meaningful difference in the lives of the communities we serve,” added Jiyane.