KwaZulu-Natal launches fibre pre-provisioning pilot in Empangeni

The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government, in partnership with Huawei and Openserve, has launched a fibre pre-provisioning pilot project in Empangeni. The initiative, a proof of concept (POC), aims to integrate digital connectivity infrastructure into new housing developments during the initial construction phase.

At the Empangeni Phase 1A housing development, which includes 405 government-subsidized households, the partners are using a ‘pipe and box’ method. This involves installing the physical ducts and infrastructure alongside essential services like water, electricity, and roads. While no fibre services are currently active, the project establishes the necessary groundwork to enable high-speed connectivity once the homes are completed.

Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli stated that the project seeks to build connectivity into new human settlements from the outset to reduce future installation costs and bridge the digital divide. Huawei is providing technical advice and knowledge transfer, while Openserve is contributing network planning and infrastructure. Huawei South Africa deputy CEO Charles Cheng expressed hope that this approach could eventually become a national standard integrated into South African building codes and housing strategies.