We have made significant progress in expanding and upgrading our network infrastructure, delivering fast, reliable, and secure connectivity. By developing and deploying innovative technologies, we improved network performance and expanded our 4G and 5G networks. Our efforts include launching state-of-the-art cell towers to connect underserved communities and acquiring telecom assets to bolster infrastructure and data coverage.

We are increasing investment in rural areas to overcome barriers to connectivity and digitalisation. To revolutionise our rural connectivity models, we are exploring solutions to deploy direct-to-mobile with AST SpaceMobile in countries where terrestrial solutions are not viable. We are conducting trials for backhaul services and direct-to-mobile connectivity.

We run programmes aimed at reducing the cost of smartphones by:

• Applying subsidies, discounts and offers on 4G devices tailored to low‑income communities and offering various entry-level 4G devices such as the cloud‑based phones.
• Assembling smartphones in African countries to reduce import duties, which often make up a significant proportion of the device cost.
• Launching various device financing programmes and partnerships across our OpCos to make affordable 4G smartphones and data packages accessible to low‑income users.
• Enabling customers with no credit facilities to pay for 4G devices through monthly, weekly, and daily instalments.
• Introducing longer smartphone contracts, offering customers an extended payment period for high-end devices.

Vodacom works to address the digital gap through reducing the cost of data, providing free access to online platforms and bringing mobile to more women.

• Through personalised and target offers we reduce the cost of data, make our pricing affordable and increase bundle validity to support users, including youth and low‑income households.
• We provide free access to beneficial online platforms and resources to drive digital access and inclusion.
• We use mobile technologies to enhance women's quality of life through programmes that enable financial inclusion, improve health and well-being, provide education, and skills development.

Vodacom continues to empower communities to thrive in the digital economy. Our financial services empower millions across Africa to participate in the formal economy by providing accessible, reliable, and innovative digital financial platforms. M-Pesa, VodaPay, and Vodafone Cash reflect our commitment to financial inclusion, offering a comprehensive range of financial services tailored to meet the needs of key business and consumer sectors. This contributes to unlocking growth and economic empowerment opportunities.

Vodacom is committed to supporting entrepreneurs, start-ups, small enterprises and our SME suppliers by offering tailored connectivity solutions, digital platforms, financial services and training. By equipping them with the necessary tools, we enhance their digital capabilities and ensure they are well positioned to thrive in the modern economy.

We work with organisations to provide carefully selected digital products and services to improve efficiency and productivity. Vodacom accelerates digitalisation in large enterprises and public institutions by delivering innovative, sustainable and secure technology solutions that drive efficiency, reduce environmental impact and improve digital inclusion.

• We provide scalable digital platforms, such as government e-payment, citizen engagement solutions, and e-administration solutions which enhance government efficiency by streamlining service delivery and financial transactions.
• We enhance workforce mobility and safety through digital workplace solutions that provide real-time tracking, communication and operational insights, empowering organisations to streamline their workforce management.
• Vodacom enables enterprises and residential communities with cutting-edge connectivity, smart home integration and public Wi-Fi solutions.
• Our smart solutions optimise asset tracking and energy efficiency through IoT-driven solutions. Smart metering, utility asset and fleet management services enhance monitoring, reduce risks and improve efficiency and sustainability.

Digitalising healthcare

Vodacom is driving this shift by deploying IoT-powered stock monitoring, mobile diagnostic platforms, and cloud‑based hospital management systems to enhance efficiency and patient outcomes.

• We drive large-scale digital transformation to modernise hospitals and public healthcare systems, streamlining patient care, administration and workforce management.
• We offer real-time digital tools which improve diagnostic testing, vaccine tracking and medicine stock management, enabling faster, data-driven healthcare interventions.
• Our technology-based emergency transport and maternal care services improve accessibility and response times, saving lives in underserved communities.

Digitalising agriculture

Through our partnerships with our subsidiaries, we provide digital solutions that streamline inputs distribution, expand market access and facilitate payments.

• Vodacom's fintech solutions enable farmers to access mobile-based payments, vouchers, credit, and insurance, improving financial resilience and market participation.
• Our cloud‑based platforms and IoT solutions enhance agricultural productivity by enabling real-time monitoring, automation, and data-driven decision-making.
• We have training initiatives to equip farmers with the digital skills needed to adopt smart agriculture tools and financial solutions.

Our approach of the digital inclusion of people with disabilities intentionally promotes equitable development and participation. We are committed to bridging these gaps through assistive technologies, accessible customer services, and digital literacy programmes.

• We provide solutions to ensure communication access for D/deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech-impaired individuals.
• We enable digital accessibility for individuals who are blind or visually impaired through digital tools, training and connectivity solutions.
• We advance disability inclusion through economic empowerment, awareness campaigns and policy commitments

Vodacom is a signatory to the GSMA's principles for driving the digital inclusion of persons with disabilities.

We work with various partners to leverage digital technology to help fight the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV). We support efforts to prevent GBV through digital tools, awareness campaigns, and funding initiatives that drive education and intervention. We provide direct assistance to survivors of GBV through digital literacy, psychosocial support, shelter initiatives and rehabilitation programmes.