We want broadband

De Simone says that broadband – which is defined as high-speed internet access – is essential for South Africa to develop skills in the information, communication and technology (ICT) sector.

This sector, argues Simone, is every bit as important to economic growth as rail, ports and airports.

Cheap and accessible broadband has been the dream of many South Africans. But despite promises to the contrary, South Africa remains a stagnant backwater in global broadband terms.

De Simone says that government initiatives such as the legalisation of communication medium voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) have been a good start. “But there is not enough competition at moment to initiate growth,” he laments.

The good news is that companies like Cisco see promise in South Africa. Simone says that SA is one of Cisco’s top four emerging market countries among Brazil, India and China. Cisco has committed R80m over the next two years to facilitate ICT skills development.

Thoko Mokgosi-Mwantembe, CEO of Hewlett Packard (HP) South Africa, agrees that there is increased need for broadband. Like Cisco, HP remains bullish on opportunities in South Africa, but sees skills development as a challenge.