Digital Divide Remains a Challenge
In South Africa, it is estimated that around 20% of the population still remains digitally unconnected. Particularly in rural and underserved communities where existing infrastructure still needs major development.
In a new venture announced, this is one of the solutions required to address this and ensure that the country achieves digital inclusiveness.
BareMetal is a South African company with its headquarters in Cape Town, founded in 201. The company provides a range of professional Information Technology services, primarily in the form of wireless internet.
The company has been looking to extend the range of services that it offers in order to cater to a more diverse market, including informal businesses, households, and underserved communities that previously had limited access to reliable internet.
Growth opportunities with fibre
BareMetal has now partnered with Frogfoot RISE, a provider of prepaid, uncapped internet access in underserved communities.
By integrating fibre into its service portfolio, BareMetal has significantly enhanced its service delivery, while being able to offer high-speed, reliable connectivity has enabled a broader scope of client base and strengthened its position as a key player in the digital landscape.
“Transitioning from a Wireless Internet Service Provider (WISP) to a Fibre Internet Service Provider (ISP) has been a transformative shift for BareMetal, largely due to our partnership with Frogfoot RISE. The robust infrastructure, technical support, and access to previously unattainable customers has allowed us to scale our offerings,” says Graham Khan, CTO at BareMetal.
Bridging the digital divide
The growth impact, seen as a result of this transition has also empowered BareMetal to make a tangible positive impact on local communities through the creation of numerous employment opportunities, both directly within the company and through partnerships with local organisations. This includes a focus on upskilling community members by providing training in areas such as fibre sales, support procedures, customer support, and even technical maintenance.
As an example, Khan says that one of the company’s early hires, a local youth named Asenathi, joined BareMetal as a general sales agent, and after undergoing training, is now leading its fibre sales & support team that includes five staff members. “Stories like Asenathi’s are a testament to how partnerships like ours with Frogfoot RISE can foster personal growth and uplift entire communities,” says Khan.
“This collaboration with Frogfoot has allowed us to bridge the digital divide in remote areas that were previously neglected. The benefits extend beyond just connectivity, as local businesses can now thrive, students have reliable access to online learning, and essential services are more easily accessible through the power of high-speed internet.”
Read More on Telecoms partnership to enhance Youth digital skills: READ HERE