WAPA Accuses Vodacom of Fueling Digital Divide Through High Data Prices

While major mobile operators like Vodacom claim to be champions of digital inclusion, the Wireless Access Providers Association (WAPA) says their actions tell a different story.

In a bold statement, WAPA Executive Committee member Paul Colmer accused Vodacom and other major Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) of perpetuating the very digital divide they publicly decry—through exorbitant prepaid data pricing, despite widespread network coverage.

Citing Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) data showing nearly universal 2G, 3G, and 4G coverage, Colmer argued the issue lies not in infrastructure gaps, but in inaccessible pricing models that exclude low-income users.

This criticism follows Vodacom’s failed merger with Maziv, which the company claimed would have bridged the digital divide. However, Colmer said the narrative is misleading. “South Africa is charging full steam ahead with network rollouts in underserved areas—without Vodacom,” he said.

Initiatives like the Government’s Broadband Access Fund, and efforts by companies such as Fibretime, Ilitha, and Frogfoot, are bringing affordable internet to townships and rural communities. Some providers offer uncapped access from as little as R5 per day—compared to Vodacom’s 35MB bundle for R5.50.

WAPA also challenged the newly formed Association of Comms and Technology (ACT), chaired by Vodacom’s CEO, questioning whether such alliances truly foster industry cohesion or further entrench power among giants.

Communications Minister Solly Malatsi has called for more affordable devices and tax reforms to boost digital inclusion, but Colmer warned real progress depends on bold pricing reform from dominant MNOs—or continued growth from smaller, innovative providers.

“The myth that only large MNOs can close the gap is crumbling,” Colmer said. “The real work is being done by smaller players and government partnerships.”