LIMPOPO – The Mopani District Municipality (MDM) is taking major steps toward closing the digital divide in its communities following the recent launch of new WiFi towers in Lenyenye, where residents now have free internet access.

Limpopo Connexion, in partnership with MDM, officially launched the initiative to connect communities, particularly those in rural and township areas.

Lenyenye is the first area in the district to benefit from the programme, with the local community hall designated as a hotspot providing free WiFi to anyone nearby.

Additional towers will soon be installed in Nkowankowa, with more areas expected to follow. Limpopo Connexion’s interim CEO, Rolda Ledwaba, said the organisation’s goal as a government entity is to ensure that every resident has access to reliable and free internet connectivity. She noted that they also offer affordable home WiFi packages.

“In Nkowankowa, we are still waiting for the municipality to confirm a site where we can install the tower. Once we receive the go-ahead, we will proceed immediately,” Ledwaba explained. She added that small business enterprises will be contracted to install Wi-Fi towers in other locations.

MDM Mayor Pule Shayi said access to reliable internet can help break the cycle of poverty because it supports small business development and enables young people to pursue education, skills development and employment opportunities.

He emphasised that WiFi plays a vital role in modern life.

“Our entrepreneurs should be able to leverage this WiFi infrastructure to connect with clients through social media or e-commerce platforms,” he said.