How is Telkom addressing the increasing consumer demand for faster and more reliable internet connections while effectively managing the associated challenges and meeting expectations?
We embarked on building a data-led mobile network, skipping 3G and moving straight to 4G. Our primary goal was to provide customers with greater value by producing data at the lowest cost and passing those benefits on to them through competitive pricing and higher speeds. We have made significant investments in our network and introduced value propositions in the home space to fulfill these objectives and ensure we effectively meet our customers’ needs.
In many African countries, affordability remains a significant barrier to internet access for a large portion of the population. How does Telkom propose to address this issue in the short term, particularly considering product propositions and more valuable offerings?
Mobile penetration has been crucial in making connectivity more accessible, with 4G being a game-changer. However, affordability remains a challenge due to the significant investment required and the commercial unviability of extending networks to remote areas. To address this, we believe government partnership and further investment are essential. Regulation can facilitate network expansion into rural areas, and grant funding can support initiatives to bring more people into the digital economy.
We believe government partnership and further investment are essential. Regulation can facilitate network expansion into rural areas, and grant funding can support initiatives to bring more people into the digital economy.
Lunga Siyo
Chief Executive Officer, Consumer Business, Telkom
Concerning connectivity differentiation, what role does Telkom envision for partnerships with other technology providers in expanding the scope and quality of its service offerings?
Partnerships with fintech companies and content streaming services have been valuable for us. We collaborate with fintech players to offer airtime loans, allowing customers to stay connected and pay back later. Additionally, content streaming platforms enable us to provide customers a diverse range of content. We focus on network development, so rather than competing with content providers, we find it more advantageous to partner with them to enrich our service offerings.
With the assumption of improved connectivity, how does Telkom perceive the importance of digital literacy and skills development in maximizing the benefits of this advancement? Could you highlight any specific initiatives the company is involved in to address this aspect?
Digital literacy is crucial for maximizing the benefits of improved connectivity. Telkom’s foundation actively zero-rates certain websites of public interest, enabling even lower-income customers to access important services. Moreover, we partner with schools to establish ICT labs and support school feeding schemes to enhance learning opportunities. Zero-rating university websites facilitate access to educational resources and application processes, bridging the digital divide and empowering communities.
Telcos will remain at the forefront of connecting people and serving as the backbone of digital transformation in Africa. They will continue to play a pivotal role in increasing digital literacy by partnering with governments and offering valuable services.
Lunga Siyo
Chief Executive Officer, Consumer Business, Telkom
Small businesses play a vital role in Africa’s economy. How is Telkom customizing its services and solutions to cater to the unique needs of these businesses?
We have a substantial customer base of small businesses, and we continually evolve our offerings to meet their specific requirements. Apart from basic connectivity, we aggregate cloud-based applications and partner with software providers like Zero and Microsoft to offer our small business customers cost-effective solutions. We also focus on cybersecurity tools and ERP systems, providing a one-stop platform where small businesses can access these services conveniently and benefit from our aggregated buying power.
Looking into the future, what are Telkom’s predictions for the telecommunications industry’s role in driving tribal economic growth and digital transformation in Africa?
Telcos will remain at the forefront of connecting people and serving as Africa’s backbone of digital transformation. They will continue to play a pivotal role in increasing digital literacy by partnering with governments and offering valuable services. By aggregating various services on their platforms, Telcos can drive a significant digital revolution, potentially fostering substantial economic growth on the continent. This digital approach could offer a unique opportunity to leapfrog traditional industrialization and create a new growth trajectory for Africa through the digital marketplace.
