South Africa's parliamentary portfolio committee on communications (PCC) on communications and digital technologies adopted a bold stand this month, recommending that spectrum be allocated to state-owned firms on an open access basis.
The move by the PPC comes as demand for broadband service across the continent continues to rise.
Broadband Infraco, a licensed state-owned telecoms company, welcomed the decision, which coincides with its goal to increase market efficiency in the long-distance connectivity segment by enhancing available long-distance network infrastructure.
According to the business, "the PCC's decision to provide spectrum to the State Digital Infrastructure Companies (SDIC) or any of the required SOEs on an open-access basis will go a long way towards offering cost-effective broadband services to marginalised populations. BBI welcomes this initiative and will collaborate with important stakeholders to achieve this goal."
It continued, "Broadband Infraco applauds the PCC leadership in paving the way to resolve matters of national significance and is committed to expanding digital infrastructure accessibility and skills, thereby supporting the broader goals of the 4th Industrial Revolution and bridging the digital divide."
BBI said its strategy focus includes several important areas to provide a complete and inclusive approach, including collaboration with regulatory organisations, collaborations with SMMEs, digitisation of government services, bridging the digital gap, and leveraging state broadband assets to benefit the country.
It went on to explain, "Duplication of telecom infrastructure makes broadband services more expensive. The PPC position, which includes prioritising the consolidation of state-owned fibre assets housed within other SOEs such as Eskom, Transnet, PRASA, Sanral, and others, will make a substantial impact in delivering digital services to all corners of the nation."
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