Telkom Group CEO Serame Taukobong has championed the creation of a borderless fibre network ecosystem across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, linking all 14 member states from South Africa to Angola.
Speaking at the 45th Southern African Telecommunications Association (SATA) Annual Conference, Taukobong outlined Telkom’s bold vision for regional digital transformation during its tenure as SATA Chair (2025-2026).
“Our mission is clear: to make SATA the most dynamic, value-adding ICT regional organisation, fostering a prosperous information society for SADC,” declared Taukobong. “This requires bold action—starting with a seamless fibre network, a Tier 4 data centre hub, and One SADC Roaming Flat Tariff.”
Telkom’s 3-Pillar Plan for SADC Digital Growth
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Borderless Fibre Network – Connecting all 14 SADC nations to enhance high-speed internet access and economic integration.
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Tier 4 Data Centre Hub – Leveraging Openserve’s fibre network to establish a regional digital backbone for secure, scalable cloud and data services.
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One SADC Roaming Flat Tariff – Eliminating cross-border communication barriers to boost trade, tourism, and regional unity.
Taukobong emphasised collaboration as key, quoting the African proverb: “Better a close neighbour than a brother far away.” He urged stakeholders to unite in building a digitally empowered SADC, especially as Africa Month approaches in May.
Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, endorsed the vision, highlighting technology’s role in transcending borders.
“Under South Africa’s G20 Digital Economy leadership, we must drive inclusive growth through connectivity,” Malatsi stated.
As Openserve assumes SATA Chairmanship, Telkom pledges to strengthen regional partnerships, boost knowledge-sharing, and fast-track socio-economic progress through ICT.
“This is more than infrastructure—it’s about unlocking Africa’s potential,” Taukobong concluded. “Together, we’ll make SADC a global digital leader.”
