The telecoms industry in South Africa has undergone a tremendous transformation, profoundly impacting the lives of millions, including mine. As I reflect on these changes from 2019 to 2022, I see how mobile connectivity, the decline of ADSL, the rise of fibre broadband, and the evolution of postal services have reshaped our daily experiences and the broader economy.
Mobile Lines: The Backbone of Connectivity
Like many South Africans, I rely heavily on my mobile phone for communication, entertainment, and work. This widespread reliance is mirrored in the industry, where mobile lines dominate, generating almost two-thirds of the telecom sector’s income. According to recent data, mobile voice and data services are the primary drivers of this revenue, highlighting our collective shift towards a mobile-first lifestyle.
The comfort and convenience of mobile communication have been indispensable, making life smoother and more connected.
The Decline of ADSL and the Rise of Fibre Broadband
The past few years have seen a dramatic decline in ADSL as fibre-optic broadband has taken centre stage. I remember the days of slow, copper-wire ADSL connections—how frustrating it was to experience constant buffering during a simple video call! By 2022, ADSL had dropped to third place in internet service revenues, while fibre broadband expanded threefold, likely spurred by the increased demand during the pandemic. The surge in fibre availability has made high-speed internet more accessible, revolutionising how we work, study, and entertain ourselves from home.
The Decline of SMS Services
Do you remember the last time you sent an SMS? Like many, I’ve noticed a sharp decline in this once-popular mode of communication. The stats confirm this, with SMS services contracting significantly from R3.4 billion in 2019 to just R1.5 billion in 2022. This drop is a testament to how digital messaging apps have taken over, offering more versatile and cost-effective ways to communicate.
The Rise of Courier Services Over Traditional Mail
While the postal sector remains vital for delivering hard-copy documents and parcels, there’s been a clear shift towards courier services. Businesses and households alike have turned to options like same-day and overnight delivery, which have become more popular and efficient. Traditional postal services, such as bulk mail and international mail, have seen a decline, reflecting the changing needs and expectations of consumers.
Looking Ahead
These transformations highlight a broader trend: we’re moving towards a data-centric ecosystem. Whether it’s through the widespread adoption of fibre broadband or the declining use of SMS and traditional mail, the focus is increasingly on speed, efficiency, and connectivity. The telecommunications sector, accounting for a staggering 94% of the industry’s total income, is at the heart of these changes.
For those interested in diving deeper into these shifts, I recommend checking out the full report on the Post and telecommunications industry, 2022. It provides a comprehensive overview of how far we’ve come and where we’re headed in the world of telecommunications. As we embrace these changes, it’s exciting to think about the new opportunities and innovations that lie ahead.