Business · South Africa
South Africa’s broadband issues limit true internet access despite mobile coverage
TechCentral · 2026/01/30
Summary
Vuyani Jarana, CEO of Ilitha Telecoms, highlights a big problem in South Africa’s internet services. While many people have mobile phone coverage, true broadband access is not good enough. This means that even though people can use mobile networks, the quality of internet connections is often too slow or unreliable for important activities like working from home, studying online, or running a digital business. Jarana believes that having better broadband is key for economic growth and for more South Africans to take part in the economy. Without it, many people and businesses are left behind, especially in rural or poorer areas where internet services remain weak. Improving broadband could help create more jobs, support small businesses, and make it easier for communities to connect and share information.
OnABudget takeaway: For everyday South Africans, better broadband means more affordable opportunities for remote work, education, and small business growth. Investors and entrepreneurs should watch this space as improvements in broadband could spark new economic chances across the country.