The R7-million UK-backed Advancing Sustainable Connectivity and Community-Led Digital Economies in South Africa initiative is aimed at expanding affordable digital connectivity, strengthening community-owned networks and unlocking economic opportunities in underserved rural and township communities.

The project will strengthen the capacity of 25 local community network operators (LCNOs) in KwaZulu-Natal to deliver affordable last-mile connectivity in rural and township areas.

Participating operators will receive technical, business and regulatory support to build and sustain local digital networks, operators will be equipped to deliver 250 public WiFi hotspots, connect 150 public facilities, including schools, libraries and clinics, and provide connectivity to 1 500 homes.

Central to this approach will be the deployment of a wireless open access network (WOAN) model in rural communities. By enabling multiple operators to share telecommunications infrastructure, the model reduces barriers to entry, lowers deployment costs and promotes more efficient use of network resources.

For rural communities, the use of a WOAN model will contribute to improved connectivity which can expand access to education, healthcare, government services and economic opportunities, while creating a foundation for local innovation, entrepreneurship and digital participation.

Similarly, the model supports greater community ownership of digital infrastructure, which helps to ensure long-term sustainability and local economic benefit.

“The UK and the South African government share a commitment to expanding digital inclusion, and supporting LCNOs is central to that effort.

“Because they understand the communities they serve, they are uniquely placed to help expand connectivity while supporting local businesses, developing skills, creating jobs and delivering lasting economic and social impact,” says acting British High Commissioner to South Africa Lisa Weedon.

Through the combined expertise, infrastructure and financing support provided by partners, including telecommunications services provider Seacom and the digital infrastructure finance fund Tech Credit Fund, the LCNOs are better positioned to build sustainable networks and extend connectivity to areas often overlooked by traditional service providers.

The programme is being delivered through the UK-South Africa Digital Partnership, with support from the UK government's Digital Access Programme.

The project aims to advance digital inclusion through sustainable, community-led connectivity solutions. It is being implemented by Teen Entrepreneur through AdNotes in partnership with the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies.

“Schools, households and businesses across iLembe District are now connected to opportunities that were previously out of reach. This achievement would not have been possible without the invaluable support of our partners, the South African government and the UK government, who share our vision of a more connected and inclusive future,” says Internet services provider AfricaiTA founder Njabulo Hadebe.

As South Africa works towards a more inclusive digital future, the project offers a practical example of how strategic partnerships and community ownership can expand access to digital services. The lessons and models developed through the initiative have the potential to inform future efforts to connect underserved communities across the country, says the British High Commission in South Africa.