Wins Expected in SONA 2026

Statement by Tsholofelo Bodlani MP – DA Spokesperson on Communications & Digital Technologies:

The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, under the leadership of DA Minister Solly Malatsi, has begun to show tangible improvements in lowering data costs, expanding digital access, and laying the groundwork for a more inclusive digital economy, ahead of the 2026 State of the Nation Address.

As South Africans look ahead to SONA 2026, the Democratic Alliance (DA) expects the Department to feature prominently, as it is one of the departments starting to demonstrate practical reform after years of policy drift and regulatory stagnation that kept data expensive and digital access out of reach for millions.

The DA expects SONA 2026 to reflect the hard work undertaken by Minister Solly Malatsi in turning the Department around, including efforts to improve spectrum use and expand access to affordable digital services.

Key developments that should feature in the President’s address include continued reductions in the average cost of mobile data, driven by increased competition, regulatory reform, and more efficient spectrum allocation. Since 2016, the average price of mobile data per gigabyte has declined significantly, and the DA expects government to commit to accelerating this trend through certainty, competition, and pro-consumer policy choices.

The DA also expects SONA 2026 to highlight progress on making smart devices more affordable, including tax relief on low-cost smartphones. For many South Africans, an entry-level smartphone is the only gateway to the internet, and reducing the cost of these devices is essential to closing the digital divide.

Equally important is progress in expanding broadband and digital infrastructure, particularly in underserviced and rural communities. Extending high-speed connectivity supports entrepreneurship, job creation, access to online services, and the development of local digital economies.

The DA further expects the President to acknowledge steps taken to modernise digital governance, improve coordination across ICT entities, and reduce regulatory bottlenecks that delay investment and innovation. A capable digital state requires clear accountability, faster decision-making, and a regulatory environment that enables growth rather than constraining it.

The DA welcomes these developments, but expects SONA 2026 to go beyond announcing plans and pilot projects. South Africans have heard ambitious visions before, but what matters now is sustained delivery and measurable outcomes.

In short, we expect to hear about:

• Continued reductions in the cost of mobile data,
• Improved spectrum allocation to support competition and coverage,
• Tax relief and affordability measures for low-cost smart devices,
• Expanded broadband and digital infrastructure, especially in underserviced areas,
• Concrete steps to modernise digital governance and regulation.

The DA will continue to support reforms in the communications and digital technologies sector that translate into real affordability, wider access, and meaningful digital inclusion for South Africans.