06/06/2025
To DCDT
I am a Makhanda-based internet, mobile and technical specialist, and I have 550 active clients and 1000 on my database.
Based in the Eastern Cape, I have first-hand knowledge of the critical need for internet throughout the Eastern Cape.
There are vast rural areas in the Eastern Cape that have no mobile reception, no landlines and no alternative communication other than satellite.
The huge number affected include farms, deep rural villages, rural businesses and schools.
My business is called Kappstok and one of my specialisations is installing satellite internet for companies in South Africa offer it.
Satellite internet at the moment is costly and this leaves the majority of people in the province without internet connectivity.
The South African government has promised the people of South Africa universal broadband and this has not yet been achieved.
This disadvantages a significant percentage of the population from participating in quality education and the economy.
If affordable satellite internet, such as Starlink, is allowed to operate in the country, it would turn this situation around and there would be so many advantages.
Remote rural schools, for example, could access online learning and be taught by the very best maths and science educators in the country.
Startup businesses could thrive. People could study from wherever they are. People would feel safer as they could contact services for help.
We have to get people connected to affordable satellite internet.
I invite you to spend a day or two with me, experiencing why Starlink is desperately needed in the Eastern Cape and throughout South Africa
