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A new housing development in Empangeni in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is testing an innovative approach to bridging South Africa’s digital divide, with government and private-sector partners integrating fibre infrastructure into homes while they are still being built.
Openserve, Huawei and government partners launched the Fibre Pre-Provisioning Proof of Concept (POC) at the Phase 1A Empangeni IRDP Mega Housing development in the uMhlathuze Municipality.
Project
The project covers 405 houses currently under construction and aims to ensure that homes are ready for future high-speed internet services once networks are deployed.
The initiative uses the so-called “Pipe and Box” method, which sees fibre infrastructure installed during construction rather than after residents move in.
Supporters say the approach could reduce future installation costs and make it easier to connect communities to broadband services.
Digital connectivity
Delivering the keynote address, KZN Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli stressed that the project is about preparing communities for future digital connectivity.
“Build the pathway today, connect the community tomorrow,” said Ntuli.
He cautioned that the proof of concept does not provide fibre services immediately but creates the infrastructure needed to support future connections.
“Just as we plan for roads, for water and for electricity, so too must we plan for connectivity,” the Premier said.
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Partners
The project brings together the KZN Provincial Government, the KZN Department of Human Settlements, uMhlathuze Local Municipality, Huawei and Openserve, combining housing delivery, municipal planning and telecommunications expertise.
uMhlathuze Mayor Xolani Ngwezi described the initiative as an important step towards building a digitally connected city.
“Today marks an important milestone in our journey as the City of uMhlathuze to become a smart, connected and inclusive city,” he said. “A connected city is a competitive city. A connected resident is an empowered resident.”
Core component
Officials argued that digital infrastructure should be considered a core component of modern settlements rather than an optional add-on.
Lindani Khoza, Chief Director at the KZN Department of Human Settlements, said connectivity should no longer be treated as an afterthought in development planning.
However, while the project has been welcomed as a potential model for future housing developments, the ultimate test will be whether fibre services are deployed affordably and reach residents once infrastructure is in place.
Future policy
Huawei South Africa Deputy CEO Charles Cheng said the pilot could help shape future policy.
“It’s a pioneer step,” Cheng said. “It is our firm belief that fibre pre-provisioning must become a standard policy at a national level.”
Partners say lessons from Empangeni will help determine whether fibre-ready housing can be replicated elsewhere, with the broader goal of ensuring future communities are built with connectivity in mind alongside roads, water and electricity.
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