DBSA backs 48 000km fibre rollout across SA
Fibre deployment is part of the public finance institution’s development outcomes as its infrastructure funding reaches R62.4 billion.
The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) has reiterated its dedication to advancing South Africa's digital infrastructure sector. In FY 2025, the bank facilitated the deployment of 47,545km of fibre optic cables, contributing to the country's digital transformation. DBSA's investments in local businesses played a significant role in driving this fibre rollout, alongside its broader infrastructure funding efforts.
The institution reported a 47% increase in net profit to R7.8 billion for the year, highlighting its robust financial performance. DBSA's funding activities exceeded R20.7 billion in disbursements and R14.7 billion in catalytic funding, along with R17 billion allocated to approved projects and programmes. The bank's financing business extends to providing direct financing to various entities, including private-sector companies, fund managers, municipalities, and public-private partnerships.
Recognizing digitalisation as a core driver for inclusive economic growth and operational excellence, DBSA sees it as a critical enabler for emerging economies like Africa to participate in global markets remotely. However, the World Bank estimates that Africa needs $100 billion to achieve universal broadband connectivity by 2030.
The DBSA finances and prepares a range of ICT-related projects, including backbone and network infrastructure, towers, fibre, undersea cables, data centres, satellites, and fintech solutions. The bank's long-term investment strategy is essential not only for building networks but also for their operation and maintenance. DBSA's approach to ICT infrastructure development prioritises five key project lifecycles: planning, preparation, financing, building, and maintaining.
The bank's technology-related development initiatives, such as the DLABS programme, focus on future skills, youth employment, and entrepreneurship. During 2025, DLABS trained 1,046 young people in future skills and supported 165 start-ups, showcasing the bank's commitment to social development infrastructure.
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