- Be Broadband is expanding its fibre network to underserved areas in Gauteng and Western Cape
- The company faces infrastructure challenges while implementing innovative last-mile solutions
Be Broadband’s network expansion strategy
Be Broadband (PTY) LTD has emerged as a disruptive force in South Africa’s ISP market, aggressively expanding its fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) network across Gauteng and Western Cape provinces. The company’s recent R120 million infrastructure investment has enabled it to connect over 15,000 additional homes and businesses in previously underserved areas like Soweto and Khayelitsha.
What sets Be Broadband apart is its community-focused deployment model. Rather than following competitors into affluent suburbs, the company targets middle-income neighborhoods where demand for reliable internet outpaces supply. “We’re seeing 40% month-on-month growth in areas traditional ISPs have ignored,” reveals CEO Thando Nkosi. Their flexible payment plans, including daily data bundles, have proven particularly popular in townships where steady income streams remain scarce.
The expansion hasn’t been without challenges. Be Broadband faces crippling electricity outages that disrupt network operations and vandalism threats to infrastructure in some areas. The company has responded by deploying solar-powered nodes and establishing local community partnerships to protect equipment.
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Be Broadband’s innovative solutions to market challenges
Facing South Africa’s unique infrastructure hurdles, Be Broadband has pioneered several technological adaptations. Their micro-trenching deployment method allows fibre installation at 30% lower cost than traditional trenching, while their mesh wireless backhaul system maintains connectivity during power outages.
Perhaps most impressively, the company has developed a prepaid fibre model tailored to South Africa’s informal economy. Customers can purchase daily, weekly or monthly access using mobile money – a first for fibre providers in the region. “We’ve had to completely rethink the business model to serve our customers’ realities,” explains CTO James Khumalo.
However, analysts question whether Be Broadband can maintain its growth trajectory. “Their approach is innovative but capital intensive,” warns telecoms expert Lindiwe Ndlovu. With South Africa’s internet penetration still at just 56%, the company must balance rapid expansion with financial sustainability to truly transform the country’s connectivity landscape.
