The Vodacom Mpumalanga Region hosted a roundtable event at the renowned Mbombela Stadium on Thursday, 15 November. During the event, Regional Managing Executive Monde Ngcukana provided insights into various issues, including Vodacom’s investment in the region and its plans to expand network coverage and connectivity across urban, township and deep-rural areas.
He highlighted the achievements of the previous financial year and outlined plans for the year ahead. Mr. Ngcukana said Vodacom’s Mpumalanga Region would continue to support Corporate Social Investment (CSI) projects during the current financial year, while prioritising the delivery of best-in-class network coverage and customer service, as well as expanding connectivity across the region.
Vodacom Partnerships with Local Media Houses in Mpumalanga Through Advertising.
During the question-and-answer session, a burning question in the house was Vodacom’s plans to partner with local media house. Various media representatives sought clarification on the plans in place to establish partnerships with local media houses.
Vodacom Marketing Manager Slindile Ngcobo said plans are in place to strengthen partnerships with local media houses. She noted that, in previous years, Vodacom had already collaborated with eight or nine media houses across the region through what the company refers to as a trade exchange arrangement.
Trade and exchange would include support for CSI projects, beneficiation of communities and technical support.
Accelerating Infrastructure Investment in the region.
During a roundtable media session, Mr. Ngcukana announced a multi-million-rand infrastructure investment by Vodacom in Mpumalanga. The investment is aimed at upgrading network infrastructure, increasing network capacity, and expanding digital connectivity, particularly in underserved urban areas, townships, and deep-rural communities.
A Network facility stationed at Mbombela Stadium.
Ms Lindy Chabalala, Executive Head: Network at Vodacom Mpumalanga, unveiled a network facility housed within Mbombela Stadium. During a media tour, she explained that the facility plays a crucial role in connecting the region to the rest of the world. However, concerns were raised regarding the sourcing of equipment and materials used in the construction of the infrastructure, with questions about whether these were procured from China.
Ms Chabalala emphasised the importance of South Africans taking education seriously to develop local skills and expertise, reducing the country’s reliance on other nations for specialised skills and equipment.
She further reaffirmed Vodacom’s commitment to connecting people and communities, contributing to a better and more connected future.
