Johannesburg – Telkom Group CEO Serame Taukobong defends the creation of a boundaryless textile network ecosystem across the South African Development Community (SADC) region, which connects all 14 member states from South Africa to Angola.
Speaking at the 45th Annual Conference of South Africa Telecommunications Association (SATA), Tacobon outlined Telkom's bold vision of digital transformation in the region during his tenure as SATA Chair (2025-2026).
“Our mission is clear: to make SATA the most dynamic and value-added ICT regional organization and foster a prosperous information society for SADC,” declared Taukobong.
“This requires bold action. Starting with a seamless fiber network, a tier 4 data center hub and one SADC roaming flat rate.”
Telkom's 3-Pillar Plan for SADC Digital Growth
Borderless Fiber Network – Connect all 14 SADC countries to enhance high-speed Internet access and economic integration. Tier 4 Data Center Hub – Leverage OpenServe's fiber network to establish a local digital backbone for secure, scalable cloud and data services. One SADC Roaming Flat Tariff – Eliminate barriers to cross-border communication to boost trade, tourism and regional unification.
Taukobong highlighted collaboration as the key, citing African proverbs.
He urged stakeholders to unite as they build digitally powerful SADCs, particularly as Africa Month approaches in May.
Solly Malatsi, Honorary Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, approved the vision and highlighted the role of technology that transcends boundaries.
“Under South Africa's G20 digital economy leadership, we must promote inclusive growth through connectivity,” Malatsi said.
With OpenServe envisioning SATA chairs, Telkom is committed to strengthening regional partnerships, encouraging knowledge sharing, and promoting rapid socioeconomic progress through ICT.
“This is more than infrastructure, it's about unlocking the possibilities of Africa,” concluded Taukobong.
“Together, we will make SADC a global digital leader.”
*This article was first published in sister publication techfinancials.co.za
