KwaZulu-Natal: WOAN R7m UK Funding Boosts Digital Inclusion

• A R7 million UK-backed programme is deploying a Wireless Open Access Network (WOAN) model in KwaZulu-Natal to expand affordable connectivity in underserved communities.
• The initiative, part of the UK-South Africa Digital Partnership, is implemented by Teen Entrepreneur through AdNotes in collaboration with the DCDT.
• The programme will strengthen 25 local community network operators (LCNOs) with technical, business, and regulatory support.
• LCNOs are projected to deploy 250 public WiFi hotspots, connect 150 public facilities, and provide internet access to 1,500 homes.
• The WOAN model facilitates infrastructure sharing to reduce deployment costs and promote local ownership, addressing South Africa's connectivity challenges despite past skepticism.

The WOAN model facilitates telecommunications infrastructure sharing ZA among multiple operators, which is anticipated to significantly lower the costs and reduce the barriers typically associated with network deployment in regions historically neglected by larger service providers.

A significant R7 million funding injection from the United Kingdom is spearheading a new digital inclusion initiative in KwaZulu-Natal, aiming to bridge the connectivity gap in underserved rural and township communities. This programme places the Wireless Open Access Network (WOAN) model at its core, seeking to expand access to affordable internet services. The initiative, officially named 'Advancing Sustainable Connectivity and Community-Led Digital Economies in South Africa,' is a collaborative effort delivered through the UK-South Africa Digital Partnership, with crucial backing from the UK government's Digital Access Programme.

Implemented by Teen Entrepreneur, operating through AdNotes, in partnership with South Africa's Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT), the programme was formally launched with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new WiFi tower in KwaZulu-Natal. Dignitaries present included Rev TD Buthelezi, MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs; Solly Malatsi, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies; and Antony Phillipson, the British High Commissioner to South Africa. The primary objectives are to bolster community-owned connectivity infrastructure and foster local economic participation within these areas.

This renewed emphasis on the wireless open access network KZN model comes despite previous hesitations from the South African government, which had put plans for a national WOAN on hold. The concept itself has faced considerable skepticism globally, particularly after its implementation in some countries, such as Mexico, failed to yield the anticipated results. Industry bodies, including the GSM Association, have also voiced caution regarding WOAN models, arguing that they often do not deliver on promises of improved coverage, increased competition, or reduced prices for consumers, with many struggling to become operational.

However, the current initiative seeks to demonstrate a viable path forward. The British High Commission Pretoria has stated that the programme will significantly strengthen the capacity of 25 local community network operators (LCNOs). These South Africa community network operators will receive comprehensive technical, business, and regulatory support to develop and sustain their local networks, aiming to overcome the challenges that have plagued similar models elsewhere. The DCDT digital inclusion programme's involvement signals a strategic governmental alignment with this community-centric approach to connectivity.

British High Commissioner Antony Phillipson underscored the shared commitment between the UK and South African governments to expanding digital inclusion, highlighting the pivotal role of LCNOs. He noted that these operators, with their inherent understanding of the communities they serve, are uniquely positioned to expand connectivity, support local businesses, develop essential skills, create jobs, and deliver lasting economic and social impact. This approach aims to mitigate the economic difficulties that often make conventional network deployment unfeasible in remote or low-income areas.

The programme sets ambitious targets for the empowered local community network operators. These 25 LCNOs are expected to deploy a total of 250 public WiFi hotspots, connect 150 public facilities—including schools, libraries, and clinics—and provide direct connectivity to 1,500 homes. This extensive rollout is intended to showcase how community-based operators can effectively address South Africa’s significant connectivity gap while simultaneously contributing to local economic development.

The open-access nature of the WOAN model is particularly relevant in areas where the economics of traditional network deployment make investment difficult to justify. By allowing multiple service providers to share network resources, the model reduces deployment costs and lowers the barrier to entry for smaller, community-based operators in underserved markets. This fosters greater local ownership of connectivity infrastructure, with LCNOs playing a direct role in service delivery and economic activity within their respective areas.

To ensure the sustainability and success of these ventures, the British High Commission confirms partnerships with key industry players, including Seacom and the Tech Credit Fund. These collaborations are designed to provide LCNOs with essential expertise, necessary infrastructure, and crucial financing support, enabling them to build robust and sustainable networks. This comprehensive support system is vital for the long-term success of the KwaZulu-Natal WOAN R7m UK funding initiative and its broader goals for digital transformation.

This initiative signals a potential shift in South Africa's approach to telecommunications infrastructure, particularly for underserved areas, and could lead to new regulatory frameworks or licensing opportunities for community network operators and shared infrastructure models. Lawyers advising clients in the telecom sector should monitor developments for implications on market entry, competition, and compliance with evolving digital inclusion policies.

Source: Original reporting via MyBroadband