The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Hon. Velenkosini Hlabisa, accompanied by the top management of CoGTA met with Vodacom Executives yesterday, 27 March 2025. The purpose of the engagement was to discuss the following:
- Key connectivity challenges in South Africa
- Vodacom’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives
- Potential areas of alignment between Vodacom’s work and government plans for development
- Government policy priorities
The meeting focused on the urgent need to bridge the digital divide, particularly in rural and underdeveloped areas, ensuring that all South Africans have access to reliable and affordable internet services. Minister Hlabisa emphasized the pivotal role of connectivity in economic development, service delivery, and enhancing communication between communities and government structures, particularly in a developmental state, such as South Africa.
Furthermore, Vodacom Executives shared insights into its ongoing CSI projects, which include education, health, and community development programs. Minister Hlabisa welcomed Vodacom’s commitment to social investment and highlighted opportunities where these initiatives could complement government efforts, especially in traditional and rural communities.
The discussion also explored how Vodacom and the government could collaborate to enhance digital infrastructure, disaster response capabilities, and e-governance services to improve efficiency and accessibility for citizens.
Minister Hlabisa further reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering public-private partnerships that drive sustainable socio-economic development. “Collaboration with private sector stakeholders like Vodacom is critical in achieving our developmental goals. Connectivity is a fundamental enabler of growth, and we must work together to ensure that no community is left behind,” said the Minister.
Both parties agreed to continue engagements to develop concrete action plans that will support digital transformation and community development initiatives in South Africa.
For media inquiries, contact:
Ms. Pearl Maseko Binqose
Media Liaison Officer for the Minister of CoGTA
Cell: +27 (82)772 1709
Mr. Legadima Leso
(COGTA) Head of Communications
Cell: +27 (066) 479 9904
