Cape Town, AfricaTech Festival — South Africa’s Minister of Communication and Digital, Solly Malatsi, delivered an impactful message on Africa’s digital future, emphasising South Africa’s central role as a regional hub for investment and innovation.
In his speech titled “Advancing Africa’s Digital Future: South Africa’s Commitment to Connectivity, Innovation, and Inclusive Growth,” Malatsi laid out the country’s vision to harness digital transformation not only to strengthen South Africa but to benefit the entire continent.
Malatsi highlighted South Africa’s unique position to attract digital investment, stating, “To advance this vision, we are positioning South Africa as a prime destination for digital investment that will drive benefits across Africa. The tech ecosystem in Africa is growing rapidly, and the continent’s internet economy is expected to reach $180 billion by 2025, contributing 5.2% to Africa’s GDP (International Finance Corporation, 2022).”
Malatsi emphasised that South Africa’s skilled workforce, regulatory support, and strategic location create an ideal environment for a technology hub capable of propelling growth across Africa.
“Investing in South Africa is not just an investment in one country; it is an investment in Africa’s future. Every dollar committed here strengthens our digital infrastructure, fuels job creation, and promotes an innovation culture that can be shared by our African neighbours,” he stated.
The government’s focus includes lowering data costs and increasing the affordability of smart devices, making digital access possible even for those in under-resourced areas.
As Africa assumes a larger role in the global digital economy, South Africa is leading efforts to ensure Africa’s voice is heard worldwide.
Malatsi expressed his commitment to championing the continent’s needs, particularly as South Africa prepares to lead the G20 in 2025.
“South Africa is committed to ensuring that Africa’s voice resonates powerfully on the global stage,” he noted.
Highlighting the potential of universal connectivity, he added, “Research suggests that universal connectivity in Africa could lift over 44 million people out of extreme poverty.”
By working toward policies that uplift every African nation, South Africa aims to shape a digital industry that promotes long-term sustainable growth.
Strengthening African solidarity through connectivity
Malatsi stressed the importance of collective action, calling for pan-African solidarity in addressing the region’s digital challenges.
He emphasised, “The challenges we face in connecting every African to the digital world cannot be solved by any one country.”
With studies showing that achieving 100% internet penetration in sub-Saharan Africa could boost GDP growth by 1.5% annually, Malatsi emphasised that “a connected South Africa strengthens Africa’s competitive position globally.”
A call to action: building Africa’s digital future together
Concluding his address, Malatsi urged investors, policymakers, and community leaders to play an active role in shaping Africa’s digital future.
“Today, I call on each of you: investors, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, to consider your role in advancing Africa’s digital future. As we work to make South Africa a beacon of digital success, we are driven by a belief that this success will resonate across Africa,” he said.
Malatsi’s vision reflects a commitment to inclusive digital progress, positioning South Africa as a gateway for transformative growth across the African continent. Through focused investment and collaboration, he believes that Africa’s digital landscape can flourish, creating economic opportunities and fostering innovation for all.
Renewable Energy Is Key To Africa’s Digital Future
Today, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, addressed the critical need for a dual approach that intertwines renewable energy with digital infrastructure to secure a prosperous digital future for South Africa and the African continent.
Speaking at One & Olny Resort in Cape Town, the Ministerial Forum 2024, themed “Building a Prosperous, Inclusive, and Sustainable Digital & Intelligent Africa,” Malatsi emphasised that Africa’s digital progress hinges on sustainability, inclusivity, and the accessibility of resources.
“We stand at a crossroads where the choices we make will either narrow or deepen divides,” Malatsi remarked.
“Digital transformation must serve as a bridge for inclusion, not a barrier, and this vision requires clean, reliable energy.”
Bridging the divide through inclusive digital transformation
Digital technologies offer unprecedented potential for social inclusion, providing access to work, education, and communication.
Yet, Malatsi noted that millions of Africans remain excluded from this potential due to a lack of access to both digital and energy resources.
“Africa’s digital divide grows as daily life increasingly relies on technology. This digital disconnect cannot be solved without making technology accessible, affordable, and usable for all.”
The minister’s approach calls for a three-pronged strategy, highlighting digital accessibility, skills training, and public trust in technology.
