Telkom commits R20m to support local govt elections

The Telkom Group has pledged R20 million to assist the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) in preparations for the 2026 Local Government Elections, leveraging its extensive national connectivity infrastructure and technical capabilities. The collaboration, confirmed prior to the scheduled election date of 4 November, aims to bolster digital infrastructure necessary for the electoral process, with Openserve's nationwide fiber network playing a crucial role.

Telkom emphasizes that this commitment continues a long-standing relationship with the IEC, dating back to South Africa's inaugural democratic elections in 1994. Serame Taukobong, Telkom's Group CEO, highlights the importance of South Africa's elections in fostering democratic participation, stating that the company's contribution involves offering trusted digital infrastructure and technical expertise to aid the IEC in fulfilling its national mandate.

Beyond connectivity, Telkom will also deploy engineers, technicians, and technology specialists to ensure network reliability and smooth operation of electoral technologies. The 2026 Local Government Elections will determine the makeup of municipal councils throughout South Africa, with citizens voting for representatives responsible for local governance and services such as water, sanitation, electricity, and refuse removal.

These elections occur every five years, with the prior ones held on 1 November 2021. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), a constitutionally mandated body, manages and oversees the electoral process, ensuring it is free and fair, covering tasks like voter registration, voting, vote counting, and result declaration. Sy Mamabolo, IEC's Chief Electoral Officer, welcomes the partnership, noting that it will enhance the digital infrastructure required for the elections.

He underscores the importance of reliable connectivity, especially in remote areas, to prevent geographical barriers from hindering eligible voters from participating in the democratic process. Telkom stresses that its role in the partnership remains technology-centered and impartial, with the IEC retaining sole responsibility for election management and administration.

The company will not tally or verify votes, decide election outcomes, or sway electoral results. This collaboration combines various Telkom Group resources to support the infrastructure and technical operations essential for the successful conduct of the elections, including addressing challenges in providing consistent connectivity.