Factors affecting the roll-out of penetrative broadband delivery in KwaZulu-Natal.
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Date
2016
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Abstract
The roll-out of broadband infrastructure in countries across the globe is crucial to their economic, scientific goals, and social requirements. It has the ability to uplift lives by providing Information Communication Technology (ICT) skills for employment and it can also help improve access to online education, e-learning. Investments in broadband are increasing as policymakers believe that broadband may lead to job creation and economic competitiveness. The broadband divide in South Africa and other developing countries is of concern as broadband service is inhibited by numerous factors. Broadband macro-level access can be assessed according to penetration rates, broadband coverage, connection types, user demographics, and lastly high-level broadband policy development. The purpose of this study was to establish the factors affecting the roll-out of penetrative broadband delivery in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), particularly with regard to fixed lines. The research employed a qualitative methodology. Purposive sampling was used to select six people from a total population of 250 and interviews were used to gather primary data for this study. Research findings revealed that Government needs to take the lead role if broadband penetration is to be rolled out in non-lucrative areas, for example rural KZN and non-affluent residential areas. The formation of partnerships amongst key role players such as other telecommunications companies, communities, and Government could assist with addressing the challenges and constraints associated with rolling out penetrative broadband services. Despite the progress that appears to be possible and is shown by other African countries such as Kenya, Uganda and Burundi, KZN appears not to be serious about rolling out penetrative fixed line broadband. A coordinated inter-governmental collaborative approach amongst key stakeholders on broadband penetration initiatives is required to develop a high speed communications infrastructure for all the country’s citizens. Similar studies of this nature could be conducted in other provinces of South Africa for a more balanced and general view of the state of penetrative broadband in the country.
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Master’s Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.