AdNotes, in partnership with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in South Africa, are launching a groundbreaking initiative to transform the digital connectivity landscape in the Harry Gwala District by expanding affordable internet connection across Ixopo. The launch ceremony taking place on Friday, 15 March 2024 signifies the culmination of collaborative efforts aimed at addressing the digital divide within rural municipalities. The initiative is supported by the Harry Gwala Development Agency, Seacom as the IP Transit Partner, and the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office as a strategic partner.

The digital divide in remote South African regions remains a significant challenge, impacting access to information, educational prospects, economic resources and engagement in the digital economy. Inadequate infrastructure, particularly insufficient broadband internet connectivity, stands as a primary obstacle hindering access to digital services in rural areas.

The Harry Gwala district was selected as one of seven districts nationwide to benefit from the Rural Television White Space (TVWS) network operator support programme. This initiative holds immense potential to uplift communities by providing them with access to reliable and high-speed internet access, unlocking a wealth of opportunities for education, economic empowerment, and participation in the global digital ecosystem.

During the ceremony, attendees will have the opportunity to visit various beneficiary sites and witness the project's impact firsthand.

Location 1:

Moses Kotane Institute digital centre – Providing 4IR training to community members,

Harry Gwala Development Agency – Providing various socio-economic support to both residents of the district and investors.

Byteflow - A newly established callcentre providing employment opportunities to over 30 youth from the local community.

Location 2:

Sinovuyo High School – A rural beneficiary school utilising the TVWS network to access broadband Internet to improve quality of education for learners.

Members of the media are invited as follows:

Date: 15 March 2024
Venue: Harry Gwala Development Agency, ERF 2226, Portion 27, Ellerton Farm, Ixopo
Time: 09:00-15:00

For RSVP, please contact Phetolo Phatsibi, CSIR Media Relations Practitioner.
Email: PPhatsibi@csir.co.za
Contact: 0813968871

Issued by CSIR Strategic Communication

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