Speaking at the SA Digital Inclusion Roundtable in Johannesburg, Minister Solly Malatsi revealed that more than 23 million people in the country remain without internet access.

Malatsi attributed the lack of access to limited infrastructure investment by both the public and private sectors, warning that connectivity is becoming a key barrier to inclusive socio-economic development.

“We want people to have reliable high-speed internet connectivity. We are also advocating for affordability of smart devices. It is something that we are making modest progress with,” Malatsi said.

The Minister added that the department is actively lobbying the National Treasury to scrap luxury taxes on smart devices priced below $141.16. He said the move would go a long way in making smartphones more accessible, especially for low-income households.

He also emphasised the department’s broader strategy to champion digital public infrastructure, including initiatives that promote open access networks, public Wi-Fi, and digitally enabled service delivery.

--SABC/ChannelAfrica--