South Africa is taking a bold step toward closing one of its most persistent gaps — the digital divide. A new R142 billion Digital Connectivity Investment Roadmap, unveiled by the Development Bank of Southern Africa and the National Planning Commission, sets out an ambitious plan to achieve universal high-speed broadband access by 2035. This is more than just an infrastructure plan — it’s a blueprint for building an inclusive digital economy. The roadmap looks at everything from

expanding fibre and mobile networks, to tackling affordability, improving digital skills, and strengthening institutional capacity.

Aligned with frameworks like the National Development Plan and global targets such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the plan outlines what it will take — financially and practically — to ensure that no community is left behind in South Africa’s digital future.

The big question now is: how do we turn this R142 billion vision into reality — and what will it mean for ordinary South Africans, especially those in underserved and rural areas?

Guest: Dr. Tshepo Feela - Commissioner of the National Planning Commission (NPC) in South Africa