The South African government is on the cusp of finalizing a significant deal with partially state-owned telecommunications giant Telkom (TKGJ.J), as announced by Communications Minister Mondli Gungubele. Addressing concerns that the government might sell its 40% stake in the company, the minister asserted that Telkom’s assets are an essential leverage for the nation’s digital future. Despite facing challenges in gaining market share against industry giants Vodacom (VODJ.J) and MTN (MTNJ.J), Telkom’s vast customer base of 18 million mobile and 11 million broadband subscribers has made it an attractive target for potential acquisition. However, the government’s intention to remain invested in the company indicates its commitment to leverage the partnership to accelerate internet connectivity across the country.
The Path to Empowering South Africa’s Digital Landscape
Telkom’s market value has witnessed a decline, halving from its peak in 2021 due to fierce competition in the mobile and fiber connectivity sectors. Vodacom and MTN’s dominance in these areas made it challenging for Telkom to gain a larger market share, leading to speculation that the government might divest its stake in the company. Nonetheless, the government’s decision to retain its investment in Telkom signifies its strategic approach to fulfilling its promise of providing affordable, high-speed internet access to all South Africans.
Minister Gungubele’s Vision for Connectivity
In February, President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his ambition to ensure widespread access to high-speed internet for all citizens, although a specific timeline was not provided. Building upon this vision, Communications Minister Gungubele has set a target of connecting 80% of South Africans to the internet by 2024. This move seeks to bridge the gap in internet accessibility, considering that more than a quarter of the population currently lacks an internet connection. The upcoming partnership with Telkom plays a vital role in actualizing this ambitious goal.
Enhancing Internet Penetration for a Digital Future
Minister Gungubele emphasized that technology, enabled by the partnership with Telkom, will be instrumental in achieving the desired speed and scale required for the country’s digital progress. Leveraging Telkom’s assets, including its extensive subscriber base, is viewed as a strategic advantage in bolstering internet penetration throughout South Africa. As internet connectivity becomes an indispensable aspect of modern life, access to fast and reliable internet services is crucial for economic growth, education, healthcare, and communication.
A Pending Announcement with Concrete Plans
While the minister did not provide an exact date, he assured the public that the announcement regarding the government’s collaboration with Telkom would be made soon, possibly within the coming weeks. The agreement outlines a clear roadmap for the partnership, focusing on how it will bolster the country’s digital infrastructure and accelerate internet connectivity.
Commitment to a Stronger Digital Future
Minister Gungubele reiterated the government’s contentment with its current stake in Telkom. Rather than divesting its holdings, the government aims to strengthen its relationship with the telecoms firm to drive internet connectivity initiatives further. Telkom’s assets will be utilized to foster the rapid expansion of high-speed internet services, providing South Africans with better access to information, resources, and opportunities.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the government’s optimism, it is essential to acknowledge that Telkom faced challenges in the past financial year, with a 77% decline in profits. The company recorded an impairment of 13 billion rand ($739.19 million) in assets for the fiscal year ending March 31. However, the partnership with the government could serve as a catalyst for Telkom’s recovery and resurgence.
Source: https://iafrica.com/government-nears-crucial-deal-with-telkom-to-boost-internet-connectivity/