The African United Business Confederation (AUBC), in partnership with MTN South Africa, successfully hosted a High-Level Business Roundtable Dialogue under the theme:
“Regulatory Framework, Universal Access and Consumer Protection in Satellite Broadband and Available Opportunities.”
The roundtable, hosted today at MTN Innovation Centre, brought together key stakeholders from government, regulatory authorities, telecommunications operators, technology companies, investors, small and medium enterprises, and the broader business community to engage on the future of satellite broadband and its role in accelerating digital inclusion and economic growth in South Africa and across the African continent.
The dialogue provided a platform for constructive discussions on the evolving regulatory environment, consumer protection considerations, universal access obligations, and the opportunities that emerging satellite broadband technologies present for businesses, communities and underserved areas.
Participants included Mothibi Ramusi, Chairperson of ICASA; Thulisile Manzini, Director-General of the Department of Small Business Development, and Divyesh Joshi, Chief Commercial Officer at MTN South Africa, who highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, regulators, industry, and the private sector in ensuring that connectivity solutions contribute meaningfully to bridging the digital divide and supporting inclusive socio-economic development.
AUBC President, Mr George Sebulela stated:
“Today’s engagement demonstrates the power of collaboration in shaping the future of connectivity and digital transformation. As AUBC, we remain committed to providing platforms that bring together policymakers, regulators, industry leaders, investors and entrepreneurs to discuss practical solutions that advance economic growth, investment, innovation and digital inclusion.”
AUBC expressed its sincere appreciation to MTN South Africa for partnering in the hosting of the roundtable and for supporting meaningful dialogue on issues that are critical to South Africa’s digital future.
“We recognise that meaningful collaboration between industry, regulators, policymakers and business is critical to expanding digital access and unlocking economic opportunity. Our partnership with AUBC on this important dialogue reflects a shared commitment to advancing digital inclusion, fostering innovation and ensuring that connectivity serves as a catalyst for hope, dignity and opportunity for communities and businesses across South Africa,” said MTN South Africa.
The organisation also acknowledged the valuable support received from some of its partners and sponsors, including Skyco Media and BT Projects whose contributions helped ensure the successful delivery of the event.
The roundtable further reinforced the need to create an enabling policy and regulatory environment that encourages investment, innovation, competition and consumer protection while expanding access to reliable and affordable broadband services.
As an organisation focused on policy advocacy, stakeholder engagement and business development, AUBC will continue to facilitate strategic dialogues that contribute to policy formulation and promote an environment that enables businesses of all sizes to thrive.
The discussions and recommendations emerging from the roundtable will inform future engagements with policymakers, regulators, industry stakeholders and the broader business community.
Together, AUBC and MTN reaffirm their commitment to advancing digital inclusion, fostering innovation, and supporting initiatives that contribute to South Africa’s sustainable economic growth and development.