Black-owned telecommunications company Wireless Business Solutions (WBS) plans to invest R400 million to provide Internet access to township residents, as well as to fast track technology use in the townships.
WBS COO Thami Mtshali says the company will roll out a commercial mobile broadband data network using iBurst technology over a three-year period. "The technology will provide high speed Internet access to township residents," he says.
"This initiative aims to give township residents affordable Internet connectivity, help entrepreneurs to market and run their businesses efficiently, as well as provide IT training for many township residents," says Mtshali.
He adds: "Considering the many Internet cafes emerging in the townships, SMMEs will benefit the most. This creates an opportunity for entrepreneurs to communicate better with their customers."
Mtshali says this initiative was started last year as a pilot project. The WBS technology has been deployed in Soweto, Alexandra and Pretoria East townships, and the greater Ekurhuleni areas. "The next phase will see WBS branch out into rural areas across the country as part of moves to bridge the digital divide."
WBS already has 25 base stations located in the suburban and metropolitan areas. "Part of the R400 million investment plan is to build at least 100 base stations that will be located mostly in townships around the country," says Mtshali.
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