In a much-anticipated keynote at Africa Tech Festival 2024, minister of communications and digital technologies, Solly Malatsi, laid out South Africa’s ambitions for a connected, inclusive digital future.
His address covered everything from reducing data costs to positioning South Africa as a digital investment hub and the AI potential to fuel economic stability.
Data affordability vs. access:
Malatsi opened with a bold commitment to lowering the costs of data and devices, calling it a national priority.
“We are also committed to reducing the cost of data and devices, making digital access affordable for more South Africans,” he stated.
He cited South Africa’s challenging position of 136th out of 148 countries for mobile data affordability (as per the Alliance for Affordable Internet report, dated 2021).
Lowering these costs is essential. As Malatsi put it, it’s “not just about access—it’s about giving everyone the tools to participate and thrive fully in the digital economy.”
Universal connectivity not just a pipe dream
Malatsi cited research showing that universal connectivity in Africa could lift over 44 million people out of extreme poverty (World Economic Forum, 2022).
He said that including Africa’s needs in global plans could help digital technology bring long-term growth and positive change to the continent.
Malatsi said meaningful progress requires substantial groundwork—not just from the government but also from “collaboration with all players in our sector.”
He mentioned SA Connect as a foundational project to bridge these gaps. (Read more about the Digital Economy Masterplan 2025 here.)
The project has already connected thousands of schools, clinics, and government sites. The Digital Economy Masterplan emphasizes inclusive policies and affordable access.
If fully implemented, these initiatives could provide the scaffolding for a truly digital economy in South Africa.
However, the challenge remains: can these initiatives move past the planning stages to deliver the access they promise?
AI: A tool for stability and growth
Moving beyond connectivity, Malatsi turned to the role of AI in achieving universal connectivity and addressing regional issues.
AI-driven tools, he noted, could be instrumental in sectors like agriculture. Solutions in this industry have shown promise in tackling food security—a significant factor in economic stability.
The potential is undeniable.
South Africa as an investment hub
Malatsi painted South Africa as a burgeoning digital investment hub. He emphasized the continent’s projected $180 billion internet economy by 2025.
He also argued that investing in South Africa strengthens Africa’s overall digital landscape. It could bring benefits in terms of job creation, infrastructure, and sustainable growth.
With South Africa soon to take the G20 presidency in 2025, he said it’s vital to “amplify Africa’s voice on a global stage.”
He pointed out that connectivity is a pillar of development since it would alleviate poverty. “Universal connectivity could lift over 44 million people out of poverty.”
Malatsi said full connectivity could bring annual GDP growth of 1.5% in sub-Saharan Africa, creating millions of jobs and boosting prosperity.
“Together, we will build an Africa where technology empowers all her people,” he affirmed.
It’s a rallying cry for South Africans. As we look ahead, the real test will be in the results.
