As South Africa anticipates the upcoming 2024 National Elections, Telkom reaffirms its pivotal role in facilitating the seamless execution of this cornerstone of our democracy. Serving as the trusted ICT partner to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), Telkom will enable yet another milestone in South Africa's democratic journey.
Since our nation's inaugural democratic elections in 1994, Telkom has facilitated six national elections and five municipal polls. "This partnership with the IEC underscores Telkom's dedication to advancing South Africa's democratic processes through technology," says Althon Beukes, CEO at Openserve. "Through our continued technological support, we aim to ensure that voting is efficient, results are tabulated reliably, and data remains safe and secure."
Telkom will support 320 results-capturing sites nationwide, including 10 result centres, utilising cutting-edge technologies such as WiFi 6, Layer-3 networking and high-speed fibre. This infrastructure is designed to facilitate smooth electoral processes and uphold the integrity of the electoral system.
"Our network infrastructure ensures vital connectivity across all electoral sites, from headquarters to voting station," adds Beukes. "We are committed to expanding our connectivity solutions, employing diverse mediums to ensure robust and reliable connectivity throughout the electoral network."
In addition to providing connectivity, Telkom hosts the IEC website, offering essential electoral utilities such as online voting and voter registration. During the registration period, Telkom supported the IEC in registering over 2 million new voters, amplifying the voice of every South African.
"As the IEC establishes additional results-capturing sites and result centres, Telkom’s expansive national network is available to provide the necessary infrastructure and support," emphasises Beukes. "We leave no stone unturned in safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process, ensuring that every voice is heard and every vote counts."
Telkom's commitment to reliability extends to employing advanced security measures, including BCX's VPN Supreme product and world-class firewalling, to safeguard data transmission and uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
On 29 May 2024, as millions of South Africans mark their ballot papers, they will also place their trust in Telkom, recognising the telco’s commitment to enabling free and fair elections and safeguarding their most basic democratic right.
On this day, Telkom’s unparalleled pervasive network, spanning over 170 000km of fibre optic cables, 10 carrier-neutral data centres, and thousands of mobile towers will connect communities nationwide, making Telkom’s infrastructural muscle a key but often hidden part of their daily lives.
