South African exec Shameel Joosub-led Vodacom to invest over $40 million in network infrastructure

Timilehin Adejumobi -

Key Points

  • Vodacom set to invest over $40 million to enhance network connectivity in KwaZulu-Natal, focusing on expanding coverage to underserved rural areas. 
  • The initiative includes 130 new sites, network modernization, and expansion of fiber broadband services in KwaZulu-Natal. 
  • Vodacom targets 50% 5G coverage in the province by year-end, aiming to improve network performance and reliability.

Vodacom, a Johannesburg-based telecommunications giant, led by South African executive Shameel Joosub, is investing over R800 million ($40 million) to bolster its network infrastructure in KwaZulu-Natal. 

The investment, aimed at enhancing connectivity and bridging the digital divide, will see the construction of new network sites, modernization of existing infrastructure, and expansion of fiber broadband services.

A key focus of the initiative is to extend network coverage to underserved rural areas within the province. Vodacom plans to deploy 130 new sites in previously unconnected regions of Ugu, Umhlabuyalingana, Abaqulusi, and Edumbe.

The investment in KwaZulu-Natal follows a similar R500 million ($27 million) expenditure in Cape Town to enhance network infrastructure and broadband access. This demonstrates Vodacom’s broader strategy to expand its network footprint across South Africa and improve connectivity for all citizens.

Vodacom targets 50 percent 5G coverage in KwaZulu-Natal

Imran Khan, Managing Executive of Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal, emphasized the company’s commitment to building an inclusive digital society. “We aim to deliver exceptional network performance by expanding our footprint and upgrading our technology,” he said.

The investment will primarily be used to improve the radio access network, modernize the core network, and deploy advanced technologies like LTE and 5G. This will result in faster speeds and broader coverage for Vodacom customers across the province. By the end of the financial year, the company expects to achieve 98.89 percent 3G population coverage, 98.86 percent 4G coverage, and 50 percent 5G coverage in KwaZulu-Natal.

Vodacom has achieved impressive network performance metrics, including a 99.8 percent call setup success rate and a 0.3 percent call drop rate. These figures underscore the company’s dedication to providing reliable and high-quality connectivity.

Vodacom surges under Joosub’s leadership, revenue up 26.4%

Vodacom Group, led by South African executive Shameel Joosub, boasts over 200 million subscribers across Africa, with operations in Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, and Lesotho.

Joosub, who holds a 0.09 percent stake in Vodacom valued at approximately $10.27 million (R185.14 million), has been pivotal in steering the company towards significant financial success. Under his leadership, Vodacom reported a 26.4 percent year-on-year revenue increase to R150.59 billion ($8.24 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024.

The company has faced challenges, including the termination of 631 employees due to fraud and irregularities. However, the investment in network infrastructure highlights Vodacom’s commitment to its customers and the growth of the South African telecommunications market.