Minister of Communications Ms. Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane together with Deputy Minister Tandi Mahambehlala takes the Broadcasting Digital Migration public awareness campaign to the community of Bizana, in the Eastern Cape on the 26thof October 2017.

The Ministry Communications will also visit Vukuzenzele special school for the disabled in Bizana, Eastern Cape to donate computers to learners. “We need to ensure that our community can get maximum benefits from information and technology that government avails in order to cultivate a new crop of learners who will be ready and able to place this country on a sustainable growth trajectory,” said Minister Kubayi-Ngubane.

The department has embarked on a focused rollout of the Broadcasting Digital Migration, which has resulted in the installation of Set-Top-Boxes (STB’s) across several municipal districts. The national average registration for STBs per day is sitting at 3000; while an average of 1400 decoders are installed daily.

Minister Kubayi-Ngubane has reiterated that the digital migration project requires an appreciation of the bigger picture and the long-term benefits. “This project has the potential to make a difference in the lives of all South Africans. It brings with it job creation opportunities, especially in broadcasting and digital content production as well as the release of spectrum that can be used for broadband and telephony services,” she said.

The implementation of the digital migration project will further provide great potential to restructure South Africa’s ICT infrastructure in support of the National Development Plan’s goals of stimulating growth in the sector. The Plan’s infrastructure development agenda calls for efficient information infrastructure that promotes economic growth and greater inclusion. This requires a stronger broadband and telecoms network that is affordable to all. This ecosystem of digital networks, services, applications, content and devices will connect public administration with active citizens and promote economic growth and competitiveness. Public services and educational and information products will be that much easier to access

“This is not just about ticking boxes. It is about bringing real and tangible benefits to all South Africans,” added Deputy Minister Mahambehlala

The Minister’s visit comes ahead of the commemorative event for the Life and Legacy of OR Tambo 100 years’ celebration in Bizana. 

Members of the media are invited as follows:
Venue: Vukuzenzele intermediate school, Bizana, Eastern Cape         
Date: Thursday 26th of October, 2017           
Time:  09:30