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The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes Minister Solly Malatsi’s upcoming appearance before the Portfolio Committee, where he will outline steps being taken to broaden internet access and promote inclusive economic growth.

The recent release of draft regulations enabling Equity Equivalent Investment Programmes (EEIPs) for broadband access is a bold and timely move. It has the potential to accelerate South Africa’s digital transformation by expanding high-speed connectivity to underserved communities, supporting small businesses, and opening new pathways to opportunity, particularly in rural and township areas.

We support this approach. It reflects a clear commitment to bridging the digital divide while advancing the country’s empowerment objectives. EEIPs are a recognised part of South Africa’s empowerment framework, offering practical and impactful alternatives to direct equity ownership. They enable real, measurable benefits for historically disadvantaged South Africans.

Tomorrow’s briefing also presents an opportunity to clarify the legal framework for these draft regulations and to provide insight into the consultation processes that have taken place. The DA supports robust Parliamentary oversight and values transparency in how stakeholders and the public are engaged.

Our focus remains on ensuring that all South Africans gain access to affordable, reliable internet—an essential enabler of economic participation, education, and social inclusion in the digital age.

As always, the DA stands for both empowerment and reform. We believe in a regulatory environment that is competitive, transparent, and inclusive—one that embraces innovation while remaining grounded in the principles of equity and opportunity for all.

We are confident that Minister Malatsi will articulate how this initiative aligns with those values and contributes meaningfully to South Africa’s digital future.

Issued by Tsholofelo Bodlani MP - DA Spokesperson on Communications & Digital Technologies