Link Africa: Open-access fibre infrastructure

Link Africa: Open-access fibre infrastructure is profiled by BTW Media because public-source evidence links it to internet infrastructure, governance, operational dependencies, or market visibility.

• Builds and operates fibre optic networks across South Africa
• Supplies open-access connectivity so multiple ISPs can serve end users

Infrastructure, network and coverage

Link Africa is a South African fibre infrastructure company founded in 2013. It builds and operates open-access fibre optic networks. The company deploys fibre in metropolitan areas including Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pretoria, eThekwini and Pietermaritzburg. It also connects surrounding townships such as Soweto, Umlazi, Katlehong and KwaMashu. Link Africa owns the rights to a patented cable technology called FOCUS™, which enables deployment via water and sewer systems. This method is non-disruptive compared to traditional trenching. The firm also uses robotic drilling to reach locations other networks cannot. Its networks carry dark fibre and passive infrastructure for service providers. Link Africa partners with many ISPs and Telcos. It provides fiber-to-the-home (FTTH), metro point-to-point and inter-facility fibre links. As of recent years the company has passed thousands of homes with its FTTH deployments. The network focus spans multiple provinces to improve access and connectivity via fibre-optic infrastructure.

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Services, partnerships and social impact

Link Africa offers several fibre-based services to ISPs and Telcos. Its services include open-access dark fibre, point-to-point links within metro areas, and inter-facility links over short distances. The company enables ISP partners to deliver broadband, home-internet and business services. It maintains relationships with many ISP providers including Vox, Telkom, MWEB and others. The infrastructure support includes connections for clinics, schools and community centres. Link Africa runs programmes to empower local small contractors and create jobs. It works in townships and underserved areas to extend fibre reach. The company aligns with universal access goals to ensure across-township fibre availability. It offers open choice for ISPs so that consumers can pick their provider. Link Africa continues expanding fibre footprint and working with partners to roll out more high-speed connections in South Africa.