Vodacom commits more than R500m to Western Cape network expansion

Vodacom commits more than R500m to Western Cape network expansion. Vodacom will invest more than R500 million in network infrastructure in the Western Cape during the current financial year, with the investment including upgrades, site replacements and further expansion of its 4G and 5G networks.

About R380 million of the investment will be allocated to radio access network (RAN) modernisation. This will include next-generation hardware, software and network architecture, with more than 50 sites set to be upgraded or replaced to increase network capacity, improve energy efficiency and support 5G capabilities.

More than 50 additional sites will receive 4G capacity upgrades using the 700MHz spectrum. The lower-frequency spectrum can cover greater distances and penetrate buildings more effectively than higher-frequency spectrum.

Vodacom also plans to accelerate the rollout of new 5G sites in towns across the province, supporting mobile and home internet services.

The rollout will include areas such as Khayelitsha, Delft, Gugulethu, Langa, Mitchells Plain and Philippi, among other communities.

Vodacom Western Cape managing executive Waldi Wepener said the investment was aimed at improving the quality, reliability and reach of the network.

“Through improved connectivity, communities gain greater access to digital platforms for education, healthcare and financial services,” Wepener said.

Part of the remaining capital expenditure will support energy resilience through additional static generators and battery modernisation. Vodacom said these measures are intended to maintain connectivity during temporary power disruptions linked to localised load reduction, cable theft, municipal infrastructure failures and maintenance.

The investment comes as data usage in the Western Cape has increased by more than 40% over the past year, according to Vodacom.

The company also highlighted initiatives including Just4You and Just4YourTown, Easy2Own device financing and its V-Hub platform for small and medium-sized businesses.

Wepener said Vodacom was working with government, businesses and other stakeholders to expand access to digital services across the province.