Dear Editor
The DA welcomes the draft regulations released on 23 May 2025, by Solly Malatsi, Minister of Communications & Digital Technologies, to introduce new mechanisms to broaden internet access to all South Africans.
Access to reliable, affordable internet is a key ingredient to economic growth. The Democratic Alliance joined the Government of National Unity to make a difference in the lives of all South Africans. These steps taken by Minister Malatsi are once again proof that the DA doesn’t only talk change, we implement it as well.
Currently, most South Africans have to travel to metropolitan areas for reliable internet, as latest statistics from the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) from 2022 revealed that only 10% of South African households had access to internet, beyond mobile devices, where they live.
This acts as a barrier to commerce in areas outside of metropolitan areas. It also excludes schools, hospitals, and police stations from reliable, fast, and affordable internet.
To contribute to economic growth, social upliftment, and job creation in all parts of South Africa, we must take an all hands on deck approach, which is what Minister Malatsi’s draft regulations seek to achieve.
Although the requirements of the Electronic Communications Act remain, these new regulations encourage and make it easier for investors to make further social investments in our country.
In essence, any contribution to broadening access to the internet and growing the economy for all South Africans is welcome. The DA, as a member of government, is willing to work with all players to achieve these results.
This is a draft policy that must be finalised, and the Democratic Alliance encourages public participation over the next 30 days, as per our Constitution’s legislative process.
Regards
Tsholofelo Bodlani MP
DA Spokesperson on Communications & Digital Technologies