Net Nine Nine, South Africa’s (SA) fastest-growing telecommunications service provider, is gradually rolling out its network into Africa.
The five-old closed-access ISP is redefining connectivity by prioritising needs of previously disadvantaged and underserved communities and now has amplified the emancipation of Africa by waking it from its slumber of internet accessibility.
In line with SA government’s strategic commitment to Digital Public Infrastructure ahead of the 2025 G20 Presidency Summit set for November 22–23, Net Nine Nine is positioning itself as a critical partner in bridging the country’s digital divide and creating impactful opportunities for neighbouring countries across Africa.
Founded by broadband visionary Group Chief Executive Officer, Albert Oosthuysen, Net Nine Nine, a partner in the CYNK Group, which was established early in 2025 through the strategic consolidation of five influential enterprises: Net Nine Nine, Evotel, Magnolia Fibre Tree, Internet for Education, and LinkLayer, the expensive data in the continent could be a thing of the past.
It’s packages starts from R379 ($21,88) unlimited internet connection without any binding contracts signed, a groundbreaking initiative that has taken SA by storm, and now Oosthuysen wants to take it to the next level, as Net Nine Nine edges closer to Zimbabwe, with network now rolled in Thohoyandou, and next Musina.
Net Nine Nine forms a powerful ecosystem that goes beyond simply providing internet access, delivering integrated digital and economic solutions.
Unlike traditional internet service providers, Net Nine Nine is purpose-built to address Africa’s unique challenges, unequal internet access, affordability barriers, and digital literacy gaps.
With more than 400 000 homes passed, the Group has already made measurable impact by connecting over 222 schools across eight SA provinces with free internet, donating more than 50 computers this year alone, creating thousands of jobs, and equipping Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises with essential digital skills and tools.
Net Nine Nine’s impact extends deep into rural and township communities, where access to digital infrastructure has historically been limited.
In Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal, Wood and Raw Primary School now boasts its first-ever computer lab and unlimited internet access, thanks to Net Nine Nine’s donation of 30 computers and laptops at the Dumisani Makhaye Village, City of uMhlathuze, on June 25, 2025.
This milestone transformed teaching from “unplugged” coding theory to hands-on digital learning.
Similarly, TM Letlhake Secondary School in Westonaria recently received 15 laptops for its educators, enabling teachers to embrace digital resources for planning, administration, and classroom innovation.
These initiatives are complemented by additional social investment programmes, including the distribution of hundreds of school shoes to learners in need, with latest being Spectrum Primary School in Ennerdale X5, Johannesburg.
“Connectivity changes everything, but access must be inclusive,” said CYNK’s Head of Marketing, Richard Genlloud.
“By equipping teachers and learners, we are investing in the future of education in South Africa.”
CYNK has taken bold steps to empower small businesses and entrepreneurs through its Fibre Experience Centres, with more than 160 established nationwide, an initiative that could spread to Africa, firstly the Southern African Development Community, region.
These hubs provide digital infrastructure and customer access that help small enterprises grow, attract new clients, and build resilience.
“Our aim is to help businesses succeed and contribute to stronger local economies,” Genlloud explained.
For Oosthuysen, CYNK’s mission is both personal and national: “We need to bridge the digital divide and then the economic gap. The freedom of access to opportunity is the largest challenge facing SA on a daily basis. We believe the best way to access opportunity is through the internet.”
–ChannelAfrica–
