Which are the top 10 biggest telecommunications companies in South Africa? Are you curious about the telecommunications landscape in South Africa? If yes, then this article is for you.
South Africa boasts a dynamic telecommunications sector in a world increasingly reliant on connectivity and communication. This sector has numerous companies vying to provide the best services and innovations to meet the nation’s communication needs.
From mobile networks to internet service providers and beyond, these companies play a crucial role in keeping South Africans connected to the world.
Join us as we explore the top 10 telecommunications companies in South Africa, delving into their services, impact, and contributions to keeping the nation connected in our digital age.
Whether you’re interested in mobile plans, internet connectivity, or the latest technological advancements, this guide will provide insights into the key players shaping South Africa’s telecommunications landscape.
The Rise of Telecommunication in South Africa
Telecommunications infrastructure in South Africa delivers efficient services to urban areas, encompassing cellular and internet services. The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) manages the telecommunications sector’s Oversight.
In 1997, Telkom, the South African telecommunications parastatal, initiated partial privatization and engaged in a strategic equity partnership with a consortium, including SBC, a U.S. telecommunications company.
In exchange for a temporary monopoly on specific services, Telkom committed to modernizing and extending its network to underserved regions over five years.
The licensing of a Second Network Operator was intended to introduce competition against Telkom’s services in 2002, although it was officially granted in late 2005, now operating as Neotel.
South Africa boasts four licensed mobile operators: MTN, Vodacom (predominantly owned by the U.K.’s Vodafone), Cell C (75% owned by Saudi Oger, an international telecommunications holding company), and 8ta, a Telkom subsidiary.
In 2012, mobile penetration exceeded 10%, among the highest globally. By 2019, mobile penetration had surged to 95%. The mobile market in South Africa is governed by four cellular providers: Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, and Telkom (Mobile), operated by Telkom.
Vodacom and MTN collectively dominate 75% of the market share, leading ICASA to perceive significant concentration in mobile brand services within the country. A new entrant, Rain, introduced the majority of data-only services to consumers in 2018.
Major Telecommunications Companies In South Africa
Here are the top 10 telecommunications in South Africa:
1. MTN
- Share Price: R130.56
- Market Value: R241.51 billion
First on our list of top telecommunications companies in South Africa is MTN, a multinational mobile telecommunications giant, that has established a robust presence within South Africa.
As one of the nation’s largest telecom operators, MTN serves millions of customers with a comprehensive range of mobile voice and data services.
Distinguished by its commitment to innovation, MTN provides a diverse portfolio of products and services, including cutting-edge mobile money solutions and digital entertainment platforms.
Related: How to Transfer Airtime on MTN in South Africa
At the forefront of technological and digital advancements, MTN operates as an emerging market mobile operator driven by the belief that everyone should have access to the benefits of a modern, connected life.
Within MTN Wholesale, the company aspires to become the preferred digital network service provider for the wholesale market in South Africa. It aims to achieve this by offering innovative enablement solutions, with a primary focus on creating shared value and prioritizing its partners’ needs.
MTN’s achievements have garnered recognition both locally and internationally, positioning it as South Africa’s premier network provider. This recognition is based on its extensive network coverage, mobile data speeds, network reliability, and unwavering dedication to environmental, social, and governance advancements.
How to Check Your MTN Number in South Africa
To check your MTN number in South Africa, use this shortcode: *123*888#. Dialing this code will display your MTN number. The convenience of MTN USSD codes makes accessing services more accessible than ever.
What Is the WhatsApp Number for MTN South Africa?
To access MTN bundles via WhatsApp in just 30 seconds, you can chat with MTN. Save the number 083 123 0011 as a contact, and you can start with MTN’s WhatsApp service. It’s a quick and efficient way to manage your MTN services. #ItsGoTime.
How Do I Contact MTN Customer Care in South Africa?
- From any MTN phone. Dial 135.
- From a non-MTN phone. Dial 083 135.
- General queries. customercare@mtn.com.
- Report fraud. Fraudhelp@mtn.com.
- Reach us on social media.
2. Vodacom
- Share Price: R115.63
- Market Value: R240.05 billion
Vodacom Group Limited, headquartered in South Africa, is next on our list of the biggest telecommunications companies in South Africa.
Vodacom is a prominent mobile communications company with an extensive reach. It serves over 130 million customers across Africa, offering various services, including voice, messaging, data, and converged solutions.
Initially rooted in South Africa, Vodacom has expanded its network operations to encompass countries such as Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mozambique, and Lesotho.
Related: How to Transfer Data on Vodacom in South Africa
Additionally, Vodacom provides essential business services to customers in more than 32 African nations, including Nigeria, Zambia, Angola, Kenya, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Cameroon.
In South Africa, Vodacom operates 3G, 4G, and UMTS networks, along with HSPA+ (21.1 Mbit/s), HSUPA (42 Mbit/s, 2100 MHz), Wi-Fi, WiMAX, and LTE services. Vodacom proudly pioneered introducing LTE technology in South Africa, marking a significant milestone in the country’s telecommunications landscape.
The company expanded its offerings by introducing a fiber product for home users in October 2015. Notably, in April 2017, Vodacom’s 4G+ network in Brooklyn Mall, Pretoria, achieved remarkable speeds of up to 240 Mbit/s in a speed test.
Continuing its commitment to innovation, Vodacom became the second network operator in Africa to launch a live 5G network in early 2020, initially rolling out in Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Cape Town.
- How can I reach Vodacom South Africa?
If you wish to directly converse with Vodacom, you can contact Vodacom Customer Care. You can do this free of charge from any Vodacom cellphone by dialing 082 135. Alternatively, you can visit a Vodacom store located in your vicinity. Vodacom boasts a vast network of more than 2,000 customer care representatives nationwide.
- How can I purchase data on Vodacom?
To conveniently purchase a Daily Data bundle on Vodacom, you can use the USSD code *135#. Dial *135# and follow the prompts to complete your data bundle purchase.
- How much is 100GB on Vodacom?
100GB on Vodacom will cost you R349.00, valid for 30 days.
Related: How to Check Vodacom Balance
3. Rain
- Share Price: n/a
- Market Value: R18 billion
Rain, also known as Rain (Pty) Ltd, is a South African mobile communications company specializing in voice, messaging, data, and converged services. They launched their services in February 2018 with a focus on data-only offerings.
Rain initially relied on its network of 3000 cell towers and leased infrastructure from significant players like Vodacom and MTN to provide services. In June 2020, they announced their ambitious plans to introduce 1,500 standalone 5G towers in 2021. Today it is one of the leading telecommunications companies in South Africa.
Rain primarily offers data-only mobile network services in South Africa, utilizing 4G and LTE technologies. They have also introduced the country’s first standalone 5G network, powered by Huawei. Rain’s standalone 5G service is available in major metropolitan areas across South Africa.
- Can I use a Rain 5G SIM on my phone?
Unfortunately, Rain SIM cards are locked to specific device types pre-approved for the Rain Network.
- How much does 1 GB of data cost with Rain?
According to RIA, Rain charges R50 for a gigabyte of data, whereas Vodacom, MTN, and Cell C charge R149, and Telkom charges R100. Rain, launched in June, has rolled out more than 2,000 towers in the past 18 months and plans to reach 5,000 within the next three years, according to Rain spokesperson Nadine Arnold.
- What is the monthly cost of Rain 5G?
Rain’s Unlimited Home 5G Standard service, which offers speeds up to 50Mbps, is available for R699 monthly. While these products are technically uncapped, all of them (excluding Rain) throttle speeds once a certain threshold is met, as per their fair usage policies.
- How many customers does Rain have in South Africa?
Rain is privately owned and does not publish subscriber numbers, but it has expanded its 5G network to cover over 7 million customers, extending beyond metros to smaller towns and regions.
4. Telkom
- Share Price: R28.17
- Market Value: R14.23 billion
Telkom SA SOC Limited is a prominent South African telecommunications provider, serving customers across more than 38 countries in Africa. It is mainly state-owned, with the South African government holding a 55.3% stake.
In contrast, the Public Investment Corporation (PIC), another state-owned entity closely linked to the government, owns 14.8% of Telkom.
Telkom offers ADSL retail services through Telkom Internet to both consumer and business customers, as well as providing Telkom Wholesale services to other licensed operators. Many ISPs in South Africa, including Afrihost, rely on Telkom’s copper infrastructure to resell ADSL services.
Telkom delivers ADSL with POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service). According to Telkom’s data, 92% of exchanges have been upgraded to support ADSL. As of the 2008 annual report, Telkom was the country’s largest provider of fixed-line broadband services, boasting 412,190 subscribers.
5. Blue Label Telecoms
- Share Price: R3.67
- Market Value: R3.42 billion
Next on our list of the top telecommunications companies in South Africa is the Blue Label Telecoms Limited specializing in the virtual distribution of secure electronic tokens of value and transactional services. The company operates across four key segments: African distribution, International distribution, Solutions, and Corporate.
In the African distribution segment, Blue Label Telecoms distributes physical and virtual prepaid airtime and electricity for South African mobile and fixed-line network operators and utility suppliers. They also provide starter packs.
The International distribution segment extends its services to other countries, including the distribution of physical and virtual prepaid airtime in India and Mexico and payment solutions in India.
The Mobile segment focuses on creating a mobile transactional ecosystem and services provisioning platform, delivering mobile-centric products and services through various mobile channels. This segment also includes music and digital content provision.
The Solutions segment is dedicated to marketing cellular and financial products and services through outbound telemarketing, data, and analytics services.
Blue Label Telecoms aims to make innovative technology for mobile commerce accessible to a diverse range of users, whether rich or poor, urban or rural. They achieve this goal through a combination of physical and virtual distribution channels.
6. Huge Group Limited
- Share Price: R2.74 million
- Market Value: R472.82 million
Huge Group is a South African investment company with a clear purpose, specializing in investments within the converging markets of connectivity, cloud services, software, and xTech (emerging technology). Their investment focus lies in organizations operating within these sectors.
At the helm of Huge Group Limited is James Herbst, who serves as the company’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO). As CEO, James Herbst is pivotal in driving the company’s strategic direction and overall operations.
7. TeleMasters Holdings Limited
- Share Price: R0.98 million
- Market Value: R56.33 million
TeleMasters Holdings Limited is a South African investment company focusing on technology-related ventures. The company operates across several segments:
- Catalytic: This segment specializes in managed technology services, primarily catering to the corporate sector within the South African market.
- Contineo and PerfectWorx: These segments offer platform services, professional and technical support services, and network-related equipment.
- Ultra DC: This segment is responsible for the ownership and operation of data centers, encompassing micro data centers to more extensive, high-power density environments.
TeleMasters Holdings Limited actively invests in these areas, leveraging technology to drive growth and innovation in the South African business landscape.
8. Vox Telecom Limited
Vox Telecom Limited, founded in 1998, is a prominent telecommunications operator, delivering voice, data, and collaboration services across the southern African region. As the largest black-owned telecommunications company in South Africa, Vox Telecom engages in the corporate and consumer sectors.
The company maintains primary offices in key cities such as Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Cape Town, and Port Elizabeth and even extends its presence to Windhoek, Namibia.
Vox Telecom has firmly established itself as a critical player in the telecommunications industry. Holding a network operator license, it offers comprehensive solutions for enterprises, SMEs, and consumers.
These encompass alternative voice services, data access, ISP offerings, cutting-edge cloud solutions, various PBX and video conferencing services, telephony management systems, and faxing and text messaging applications.
With enterprise offices strategically located in significant metropolises throughout South Africa and in cities like East London, Upington, Mmabatho, Polokwane, Kimberley, Bloemfontein, Nelspruit, and Windhoek, Namibia, Vox Telecom ensures localized, uninterrupted service delivery to its extensive customer base.
Moreover, with over 13 Points of Presence (PoPs) spanning the country, consumer/SME branches, and franchises nationwide, Vox Telecom is well-positioned to provide seamless, region-specific telecommunications solutions.
9. Neotel
Neotel, formerly SNO Telecommunications, debuted on August 31, 2006, in Kyalami, northern Johannesburg. This marked a significant moment in South Africa’s telecommunications landscape as Neotel assumed the second national operator (SNO) role for fixed-line telecommunication services.
This strategic move positioned Neotel as Telkom’s first direct competitor, challenging the dominance of the existing telecommunications parastatal.
Neotel’s service portfolio encompasses many business solutions, including local and international leased lines, a comprehensive suite of voice and data services, virtual private networks (VPNs), and Internet offerings. These services are delivered across Neotel’s cutting-edge converged network, exemplifying their commitment to technological advancement.
At Neotel, a proactive and innovative spirit is highly valued. Employees are encouraged to take initiative and continuously seek better ways to conduct business. The company has meticulously tailored its unique offerings to meet its clients’ and customers’ diverse and compelling needs.
Neotel thrives in a fast-paced environment, making it an ideal workplace for individuals who relish challenges and are inspired by the boundless possibilities in the telecommunications industry.
Working at Neotel means contributing to the evolution of telecommunications in South Africa and playing a pivotal role in shaping its future.
A culture of integrity, innovation, and responsibility prevails at Neotel. The company’s core values, including responsiveness, respect, excellence, and integrity, are not merely words but principles that employees are encouraged to embody in their daily work, ensuring that Neotel continues to make a significant impact on the telecommunications landscape in South Africa.
Impact of Telecommunication in South Africa
In South Africa, the impact of telecommunications cannot be overstated. The country has undergone a digital transformation in recent years, and telecommunications companies have played a pivotal role in this process.
Here’s a brief overview of the impact of telecommunications in South Africa:
- Connectivity Across the Nation:
Telecommunications have bridged geographical gaps, connecting urban centers with remote rural areas. This connectivity has opened up new opportunities for education, healthcare, and economic development in previously underserved regions.
- Economic Growth:
The telecommunications sector has significantly contributed to South Africa’s economy. It has attracted investments, created jobs, and fostered innovation. Additionally, it has enabled other industries to thrive by providing the digital infrastructure necessary for modern businesses.
- Education and E-Learning:
Telecommunications have transformed education in South Africa. They have facilitated e-learning initiatives, making education more accessible to a broader population. This has been especially crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring students can continue their studies remotely.
- Healthcare:
Telemedicine and remote healthcare services have become increasingly important, providing medical access to those in remote areas and reducing the burden on urban healthcare facilities.
- Job Creation:
The telecom industry has been a source of employment, from network technicians to customer support roles. Moreover, the sector’s growth has stimulated job creation in related industries.
- Access to Information:
The availability of affordable data and internet services has democratized access to information. South Africans can now access news, research, and global knowledge at their fingertips, empowering them in various aspects of life.
- Technological Advancements:
Telecommunications have driven technological innovation in the country. The rollout of high-speed internet and the adoption of 4G and 5G technology have positioned South Africa as a player in the global tech landscape.
- Global Connectivity:
Telecommunications have enabled South Africans to connect with the world. People can easily stay in touch with international contacts for business, travel, or personal communication.
Who Provides the Fastest LTE in South Africa?
MTN boasts the highest average download and upload speeds in South Africa, delivering the fastest LTE user experience. MTN secures the top position in Download Speed Experience with speeds clocking in at 29Mbps, outpacing Vodacom’s result of 25.1Mbps by 3.9Mbps (15.4%)—meanwhile, Cell C and Telkom trail behind with 13.1Mbps and 11.8Mbps, respectively.
Which 5G Network Performs Best in South Africa?
Vodacom emerges as the leader in 5G download speeds in South Africa, surpassing the 200 Mbit/s threshold. A Mobile Network Experience Report by Opensignal, a respected mobile analytics company, confirms this achievement.
Which Mobile Network Is the Fastest in South Africa?
In South Africa, MTN secures the highest average download speed, clocking in at an impressive 68.84 Mbit/s. Vodacom follows with 48.58 Mbit/s, Telkom with 28.54 Mbit/s, Cell C with 23.41 Mbit/s, and Rain with the slowest speed at 15.14 Mbit/s.
Who Offers the Best Mobile Network in South Africa?
According to the MyBroadband Insights Mobile Network Quality Report for the 2022 calendar year, MTN stands as the top mobile network provider in South Africa.
This ranking encompasses all major metropolitan areas in the country, reinforcing MTN’s reputation for delivering superior mobile network quality.
The Top 10 Telecommunications Companies in the South (Summary)
South Africa’s telecommunications sector is a vibrant and competitive industry that serves the diverse needs of a rapidly advancing nation.
The top 10 telecommunications companies in South Africa, including giants like MTN, Vodacom, Telkom, and others, have collectively shaped the nation’s connectivity landscape. They have improved communication and played a pivotal role in driving economic growth, digital inclusion, and technological innovation.
These companies have invested heavily in infrastructure, expanding networks, and introducing cutting-edge technologies such as 5G, ensuring South Africans enjoy high-speed internet and mobile services. They’ve also provided a wide array of services, from voice and data to mobile money solutions, catering to individual consumers and businesses.
South Africa’s telecommunications sector is about connectivity and fostering economic development, job creation, and digital transformation. As technology continues to evolve, these companies are at the forefront, helping to shape the country’s digital future.
In the coming years, we can expect even more innovation and competition in this sector, ultimately benefiting the people of South Africa by providing faster, more reliable, and more accessible telecommunications services.
