AdNotes, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) South Africa are proud to announce the successful launch of the AdNotes’ Television White Space (TVWS) rural network in the Harry Gwala District of KwaZulu-Natal. The launch ceremony, held on 15 March 2024, was attended by esteemed members of the government, private sector, and civil society, highlighting a collaborative effort to bridge the digital and fourth industrial revolution (4IR) divides in the region.

The attendees were treated to an eye-opening journey through the world of the TVWS programme led by Prof. Luzango Mfupe, principal researcher at the CSIR. The overview of the programme was nothing short of enlightening. With anecdotes and real-world examples, Prof. Mfupe painted a vivid picture of how TVWS is revolutionising connectivity in rural South Africa. The project is based on a model of utilising unused television frequencies allocated for broadcast in a particular area to provide affordable broadband, especially in rural areas.

Dr Lulama Wakaba, Executive Cluster Manager: CSIR NextGen Enterprises and Institutions, and Mr Gabriel Dava, Deputy Resident Representative for UNDP South Africa, delivered keynote addresses at the event. Both speakers emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships and innovative technologies in advancing digital inclusion and socio-economic development.

"The inauguration of the TV White Space network signifies a significant stride towards leveraging technological advancements for inclusive societal progress. Through the adoption of innovative solutions, we are poised to diminish the digital chasm and unlock avenues for equitable growth and empowerment within marginalised communities."  Said Dr Wakaba, Executive Cluster Manager: CSIR NextGen Enterprises and Institutions.

"At UNDP, we advocate for the potency of collaborative alliances in fostering enduring transformation. The synergistic partnership among AdNotes ISP, the CSIR, and the UNDP epitomises the potential of public-private collaboration to engender impactful solutions that ensure inclusivity and resilience in an era defined by digital transformation." Expressed Mr Dava, Deputy Resident Representative for UNDP South Africa.

A focal point of the ceremony was a panel discussion on "How can private sector and non-profit organisations invest in the TVWS ecosystem to bridge the digital and 4IR divides in South Africa?", the discussion brought together experts from various sectors to explore strategies for leveraging TVWS technology to connect underserved communities and empower them with digital opportunities.

Following the panel discussion, attendees participated in a series of site visits to TVWS beneficiary locations, including Sinevuso High School, a rural school, a Moses Kotane Institute computer hub centre and Byteflows, a call centre. These sites showcased tangible benefits of the TVWS network, which is supported by the CSIR and UNDP and deployed by AdNotes. The TVWS network's base station infrastructure has significantly enhanced connectivity and access to essential services, education, and economic opportunities in remote areas.

"We are thrilled to celebrate the successful launch of the TV White Space network in the Harry Gwala District, This initiative represents a significant step towards narrowing the digital divide and fostering inclusive growth. We are grateful for the collaboration with the CSIR, the UNDP South Africa, and all stakeholders who contributed to making this project a reality." said Nathi Mbele, CEO of AdNotes.

Participants in the launch ceremony and subsequent activities gave positive feedback, praising the initiative's impact on the local community and its potential to drive sustainable development in the region.

The deployment of the AdNotes’ TVWS rural network brings a multitude of benefits that will resonate across communities, households, and businesses in the Harry Gwala District. Residents can anticipate enhanced connectivity, enabling access to vital services such as telemedicine, online education platforms, and e-government services. Moreover, households will experience improved internet speeds and reliability, fostering opportunities for remote work, online learning, and digital entertainment. Small and medium enterprises stand to gain from the expanded network coverage, facilitating seamless communication, e-commerce capabilities, and access to digital tools for efficient operations. This transformative infrastructure will not only elevate individual experiences but also catalyse economic growth and social development throughout the Harry Gwala region. It will position it at the forefront of the digital revolution, fostering a more connected and empowered community.

-ENDS-

Issued by CSIR Strategic Communications and AdNotes.

For enquiries contact:
Lyndi Meyer: Acting Media Relations Manager
Email: LLMeyer@csir.co.za
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About the CSIR:

The CSIR, an entity of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation, is one of the leading scientific and technology research, development and implementation organisations in Africa. Constituted by an Act of Parliament in 1945 as a science council, the CSIR undertakes directed and multidisciplinary research and technological innovation, as well as industrial and scientific development, to improve the quality of life of all South Africans. For more information, visit www.csir.co.za.

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About AdNotes

AdNotes is fully licensed by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) to operate and provide Internet services in South Africa. As a pioneer of TVWS technology in sub-Saharan Africa, AdNotes has deployed a TVWS Network in five of nine provinces in South Africa and exhibited TVWS technology in Dubia, China, and Egypt. AdNotes is a full member of the Internet Service Provider Association (ISPA) and the Wireless Access Providers Association (WAPA) and upholds the ISPA Code of Conduct.

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