(Ecofin Agency) - High-speed internet plays an important role in creating opportunities in education, healthcare, business, and government services. It is essential in driving sustainable economic growth and improving quality of life. By expanding free Wi-Fi access to African communities, those in underserved areas can connect to digital resources.

Liquid Intelligent Technologies, part of the Cassava Technologies group, and the Western Cape Government (WCG), South Africa, have renewed their partnership to drive digital transformation in the province through enhanced connectivity. The announcement was made on November 12. With a substantial investment of over R2 billion ($110.7) over the next seven years, Liquid South Africa will expand high-speed connectivity and public Wi-Fi, contributing to the region’s "Citizen-centric Digital Transformation."

Liquid South Africa CEO Deon Geyser highlighted the company’s commitment to providing high-speed, accessible internet saying,“ Access to high-speed connectivity is the necessary catalyst for driving digital transformation.” He added that these efforts will enable individuals and businesses across both rural and metropolitan areas in the province to fully leverage the opportunities brought by digital transformation.

Over the past decade, Liquid Intelligent Technologies has collaborated with the WCG and the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) to implement the province’s “Broadband 1.0” initiative. This effort connected WCG corporate buildings, schools, hospitals, clinics, e-Centres, and rural libraries, significantly improving access to digital resources, especially for disadvantaged communities. The renewed partnership, termed “Broadband 2.0,” will continue this work, aiming to bridge digital divides and further support the region’s social and economic goals.

According to statistics quoted by Liquid, the Western Cape already has the highest internet access rate in the country, at 88.1%. Since the partnership began, Liquid South Africa has established over 1,600 free public Wi-Fi hotspots, covering 2,000 locations across 26 municipalities, including schools, hospitals, clinics, and libraries. The service, currently used by nearly 4 million citizens, provides 6GB of free data per device monthly at speeds of 10-20 Mbps.

Through this ambitious initiative, Liquid South Africa and the Western Cape Government aim to create a digitally inclusive future for all, reinforcing the province's position as a leader in digital access and transformation in South Africa.

Hikmatu Bilali