Gauteng expands free Wi‑Fi, digital skills and smart safety

Gauteng is accelerating its digital transformation, according to the Department of e-Government. Department spokesperson Sithembiso Ndlovu highlighted significant progress in expanding connectivity, introducing new e-services, and utilizing technology to create safer, smarter communities. Gauteng's Department of e-Government presented its 2025/26 Annual Report to the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, with MEC for e-Government Bonginkosi Dhlamini emphasizing steady progress towards a digitally connected and inclusive province.

Technology is revolutionizing lives across Gauteng, according to Dhlamini. "We are connecting people to opportunities, making government services more accessible, and providing residents with essential digital skills for success in today's economy," stated Dhlamini. The department has installed 96 public Wi-Fi hotspots at various facilities, offering residents up to 500 MB of free internet daily.

Additionally, the Gauteng Provincial Network has expanded, connecting more government facilities with a 99% network uptime, ensuring uninterrupted access to digital services.

Building a digitally capable Gauteng remains a top priority, with government employees and young people benefiting from digital skills training programs. In the reporting period, 6,461 government employees and 14,085 young participants engaged in ICT and technology skills programmes, preparing them for future careers. Furthermore, Gauteng has leveraged technology in crime prevention and community safety.

As of the reporting period, there were 7,271 Vumacam cameras and a cumulative total of 960 CCTV cameras, including 443 new installations. Dhlamini emphasized the role of technology in building safer communities and improving public services, vowing to continue investing in connectivity, cybersecurity, digital skills, and innovation to create a prosperous Gauteng for all.