Vodacom is reportedly in talks with Rain and Liquid Telecom to launch 5G products in South Africa. It is believed 5G can play a major role in satisfying the
Vodacom has plans to offer affordable fixed-broadband products and faster mobile services to South Africans, but lack of spectrum is a big hindrance. The mobile operator has already deployed standards-based 5G technology in South Africa, but can only launch 5G services locally if it gains access to 5G spectrum.
“We reiterate our call to license 5G spectrum in South Africa as soon as possible, as this spectrum is not subject to any digital migration processes,” Vodacom said.
Notably, there is a large amount of spectrum in the 2.6GHz and 3.5GHz bands which is currently untapped and can be licensed to enable a meaningful 5G network rollout. Liquid Telecom and Rain both have
Rain is already rolling out a 5G network in Gauteng and Cape Town using its own sites, with plans to also procure new sites.
In an interview with MyBroadband, Rain CEO Willem Roos said the company will offer 5G services directly to consumers as well as through other distribution channels in the future. Roos added Rain is always open to discuss roaming opportunities.
Liquid Telecom told MyBroadband that it continues to explore the best commercial models that will allow it to monetize its spectrum assets.
When asked if Liquid Telecom is in discussions with Vodacom regarding its 5G spectrum, the company refused to specifically comment on any developments in that space.
In response to questions regarding its 5G discussions with Rain and Liquid Telecom, Vodacom said it still continue to explore other opportunities which may be of value to its customers.
