Vodacom invests over R1.1bn to boost network infrastructure across KwaZulu-Natal

Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal has announced a major investment of more than R1.1 billion in network infrastructure for the current financial year (FY2026), reinforcing its commitment to expanding connectivity and accelerating digital inclusion across South Africa’s most populous province.

The announcement was made during a media roundtable on Tuesday, led by Imran Khan, managing executive for Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal, alongside the company’s provincial leadership team.

Khan said the investment reflects Vodacom’s long-term vision of building a digitally inclusive KwaZulu-Natal where all communities—urban and rural—have access to the opportunities offered by the digital economy.

“Vodacom's R1.142bn investment in KZN's network infrastructure during the financial year demonstrates the company's commitment to ubiquitous connectivity across the province," Khan said.

"The investment breakdown includes R796 million for radio projects, R289m goes to transmission, R36 million towards energy, and R20m for core data networks.”

Vodacom said the latest capital injection builds on an already strong network footprint in the province. KZN now enjoys 99.91% 2G, 99.9% 3G, 99.12% 4G, and 39.54% 5G population coverage.

“The ongoing rollout of advanced 4G and 5G technologies continues to enhance connectivity for both urban centres like Durban and underserved rural communities across the province.”

Of the total investment, R100m has been earmarked specifically for deep rural connectivity.

This work has already extended reliable coverage to underserved communities in KwaMaphumulo, Nongoma, Vryheid, Empangeni, Nottingham, the Kamberg Valley, and across uMkhanyakude, an area poised for agro-processing, eco-tourism and renewable energy development.

Khan emphasised that Vodacom is transitioning from a traditional telecom operator to a future-ready TechCo.

“Businesses today face emerging technologies like 5G, AI, and quantum computing, alongside competition from hyperscalers and digital natives. Our role is to help enterprises adapt to the pace of digitalisation through systems of advantage via our digital core and customer-360 approach.”

Vodacom KZN executives stressed that digital inclusion requires more than network expansion—it must also be affordable.

Central to this strategy are personalised pricing platforms such as Just4You and Just4YourTown, which offer data and voice bundles tailored to customer behaviour and their specific location. Vodacom said the strong uptake of these platforms shows growing demand for low-cost, customised offerings.

In addition, the Easy2Own device financing initiative is helping more consumers transition from basic handsets to 4G and 5G-enabled smartphones.

“This programme is critical to helping more people upgrade from 2G and 3G devices to 4G and 5G-enabled smartphones, unlocking access to digital services and opportunities.”

Vodacom also highlighted ongoing efforts to curb the theft and vandalism of network infrastructure, which severely impacts service quality.

In Nottingham and the Kamberg Valley, local residents have partnered with Vodacom to install electric fencing around base stations—a collaboration that has significantly reduced vandalism-related disruptions.

Khan added that they recognise that network investment alone is not enough.

“Our focus on deep rural connectivity, business solutions, affordability, device access, and community partnerships ensures that the benefits of our infrastructure reach every resident and business in KwaZulu-Natal," Khan said.

"With over R1.1bn in network investment, including R100m dedicated to deep rural areas, we are building a connected province where no one is left behind.”

Rodney Moloko, Vodacom Business KZN, said the province is experiencing strong momentum as demand for business connectivity grows.

“Connectivity is what we do best, whether it be mobile or providing internet to businesses. We've just recently partnered with Starlink, which augments our current capability when we talk connectivity,” he said.

Thiloshni Pather, executive head of consumer business at Vodacom KZN, said affordable device access is transforming lives, particularly in rural communities.

“We've gradually started moving those customers over to a smartphone device. Because the minute you put a smartphone device in a consumer's hand, whether it's an elderly person, whether it's a granny that's WhatsApp calling her family, it makes such an impact in that consumer's life," Pather said.

"We have to ensure that rural children they have the same advantages of kids in a metro that has access to all of this digital equipment to those in rural areas."

BUSINESS REPORT