Gauteng’s e-Government Department has slashed its broadband expansion targets, leaving schools, clinics, and residents without essential internet access.
Despite receiving an additional R152.8 million in the adjustment budget, the department has drastically reduced its rollout plans, ignoring the growing demand for connectivity.
Ina Cilliers, DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for e-Government, criticised the cuts, stating, “This decision leaves millions of Gauteng residents, who already struggle to afford expensive data, without access to vital online resources for jobs, education, and healthcare.”
The department has allocated 70% of its broadband budget to maintenance and support, leaving only 30% for new infrastructure.
As a result, 473 fewer schools, clinics, and public facilities will receive broadband access than originally promised.
Key reductions in broadband targets:
- Wide Area Network (WAN) sites cut from 353 to 160.
- Local Area Network (LAN) sites reduced from 200 to 120.
- Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) sites slashed from 200 to 100.
- Wi-Fi Hotspots decreased from 250 to 150.
Cilliers highlighted the department’s poor track record, saying, “They are lowering targets to match their lacklustre performance, failing to meet even reduced quarterly and annual goals.”
The department claims rising costs for broadband equipment and network expansion justify the cuts. However, Cilliers raised concerns about financial planning, stating, “These costs were not factored into the initial budget, exposing serious flaws in the department’s execution and foresight.”
The future of the Gauteng Broadband Network (GBN) remains uncertain as the department explores commercialisation. Cilliers emphasized the need for transparency, adding, “We have submitted written questions to MEC Bonginkosi Dhlamini to ensure public access is protected once private sector partners take control of pricing and availability.”
The DA Gauteng insists broadband expansion must remain a priority. “Reliable internet is essential for government efficiency, education, telemedicine, and small businesses,” Cilliers said. “A DA-led government would ensure transparent, data-driven planning and public-private partnerships that protect access for low-income communities.”
Cilliers concluded, “We are committed to a connected Gauteng where broadband is a necessity, not a luxury. The DA will continue to hold this government accountable and fight for equitable access for all residents.”
