South Africa has allocated ZAR 710 million to the SA Connect program as part of the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies’ ZAR 2.545-billion budget for 2025/26. This investment aligns with the government’s vision to achieve universal access to high-speed, affordable internet, regardless of location or socioeconomic status.
SA Connect, the country’s flagship broadband initiative, supports inclusive digital growth and aims to bridge the connectivity gap. Most of the department’s budget will also support key entities such as the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), the Film and Publication Board, the Universal Service and Access Agency of South Africa (USAASA), the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa (NEMISA), and the South African Post Office.
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Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, said:
“Through this budget, it is our task to amplify our impact, ensuring that digital access and opportunity reaches every corner of South Africa.”
Khusela Sangoni Diko, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies, added:
“The digital economy must be a key pillar of inclusive growth. We need targeted investment in digital startups and a thriving startup ecosystem, funding for local innovation hubs, and policies to ensure that our people are not just consumers, but creators of technology.”
Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mondli Gungubele, highlighted:
“On focus, this financial year, we will include, among others, training of 30 000 government employees in digital literacy, cyber security awareness, and artificial intelligence fluency.”
Gungubele said that the training will be done through strategic partnership between the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, NEMISA, the National School of Government, Department of Public Service and Administration as well as industry players such as Microsoft and Google.
