At the 45th Southern African Telecommunication Association (SATA) Annual Conference, South Africa’s Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, delivered a powerful call for regional collaboration, affordable connectivity, and inclusive digital transformation.
Hosted by Telkom Group and Openserve, the conference brings together key stakeholders to advance ICT infrastructure and service delivery across Southern Africa.
A Historic Moment for Africa
Minister Malatsi highlighted the significance of South Africa’s G20 Presidency, emphasizing its role in amplifying Africa’s voice in global digital policy.
“This year marks a historic milestone—not just for South Africa, but for the entire continent. As the first African nation to lead the G20, we carry the responsibility of advocating for Southern Africa’s digital future,” he declared.
The conference theme, “ICT Connectivity and Service Delivery for the Benefit of All: Transforming Our Society Through Broadband and ICT Development,” aligns with the G20’s digital priorities, including AI governance, digital public infrastructure, and universal connectivity.
Malatsi urged delegates to ensure SADC’s perspectives shape global discussions: “Our region’s challenges demand collective solutions. Let’s leverage this platform to drive actionable change.”
Bridging the Digital Divide
As expected, affordability and accessibility took centre stage in Malatsi’s address.
He praised South Africa’s removal of the 9% tax on budget smartphones, a policy aimed at accelerating digital inclusion.
“Governments can enact policies to lower barriers, but true progress requires partnership. Together, we must expand infrastructure and make connectivity a reality for millions,” he asserted.
The Minister also focused on emerging technologies, urging preparedness for AI and data-driven innovations.
“Connectivity is just the first step. We must harness AI and digital tools to uplift SMEs, improve healthcare, and revolutionize education,” he said, aligning with the G20’s focus on inclusive tech ecosystems.
Cross-Border Collaboration in a Divided World
Amid rising global isolationism, Malatsi celebrated SATA’s commitment to regional unity.
“While the world fragments, SADC chooses connection. Cross-border collaboration is non-negotiable for our digital future,” he stated.
He applauded Telkom CEO Serame Taukobong’s appointment to the B20 Advisory Council, ensuring African representation in global economic dialogues.
With Openserve assuming SATA’s chairmanship, Malatsi pledged government support: “We stand ready to collaborate with industry and civil society to turn vision into impact.” He called on non-member operators to join SATA, stressing that “only a united approach can bridge our region’s digital gaps.”
A Call to Action
Closing his keynote, Malatsi challenged delegates to prioritise human outcomes: “Over the next three days, focus on the lives we can transform. Every policy, every innovation must serve people first.”
He declared the conference officially open, rallying attendees to “move from deliberation to action—for a connected, empowered Southern Africa.”
The Road Ahead
As SATA 2024 unfolds, the spotlight remains on tangible strategies to:
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Expand affordable internet access through public-private partnerships.
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Strengthen regional infrastructure to link SADC nations.
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Leverage AI and data governance for inclusive growth.
With Malatsi’s rallying cry setting the tone, the conference is poised to shape a digitally equitable future—one where technology uplifts all Southern Africans.
“Let’s not just discuss connectivity—let’s deliver it,” he concluded. “The time for action is now.”
