{"id":24573,"date":"2025-08-22T13:09:49","date_gmt":"2025-08-22T11:09:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/?p=24573"},"modified":"2026-03-12T09:59:11","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T07:59:11","slug":"bridge-digital-divide-sa-g20-leadership","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/bridge-digital-divide-sa-g20-leadership\/","title":{"rendered":"How South Africa Plans to Bridge the Digital Divide Through G20 Leadership"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><h2>Table of contents<\/h2><ul><li><a href=\"#south-africas-g20-presidency-a-platform-for-digita\" data-level=\"2\">South Africa\u2019s G20 Presidency: A Platform for Digital Inclusion<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#understanding-the-digital-divide\" data-level=\"2\">Understanding the Digital Divide<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#south-africas-digital-context\" data-level=\"2\">South Africa\u2019s Digital Context<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#g20s-role-in-shaping-digital-transformation\" data-level=\"2\">G20\u2019s Role in Shaping Digital Transformation<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#advancing-digital-public-infrastructure\" data-level=\"2\">Advancing Digital Public Infrastructure<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#tackling-high-data-costs-and-connectivity-gaps\" data-level=\"2\">Tackling High Data Costs and Connectivity Gaps<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#digital-skills-development-and-education\" data-level=\"2\">Digital Skills Development and Education<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#ensuring-safe-and-inclusive-digital-spaces\" data-level=\"2\">Ensuring Safe and Inclusive Digital Spaces<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#the-broader-impact-economic-and-social-benefits\" data-level=\"2\">The Broader Impact: Economic and Social Benefits<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#challenges-ahead-and-the-way-forward\" data-level=\"2\">Challenges Ahead and the Way Forward<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"south-africas-g20-presidency-a-platform-for-digita\">South Africa\u2019s G20 Presidency: A Platform for Digital Inclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p>In 2025, South Africa holds the prestigious presidency of the Group of Twenty (G20), the world\u2019s largest economies forum. This leadership role provides a unique opportunity for South Africa to highlight digital inclusion as a core focus. The country aims to utilise this platform to drive global and regional efforts that address the digital divide, ensuring equitable access to digital technologies for all citizens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ALSO READ:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/y20-summit-south-africa\/\">Youth Unemployment Crisis in South Africa Highlighted at Y20 Summit<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-2463448751\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"understanding-the-digital-divide\">Understanding the Digital Divide<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The digital divide refers to the gap between individuals and communities with access to information and communication technologies (ICT), such as the internet and digital devices, and those without. This divide often mirrors existing social inequalities, leaving rural, low-income, and marginalised groups at a significant disadvantage. Bridging this gap is essential for equitable economic growth, education, healthcare, and social inclusion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"south-africas-digital-context\">South Africa\u2019s Digital Context<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>South Africa boasts one of Africa\u2019s most advanced ICT sectors, with extensive mobile coverage and notable tech companies like MTN and Vodacom. However, significant challenges remain. Many people, especially in rural areas, lack affordable and reliable internet access. High data costs, power outages, and infrastructure deficits continue to hamper connectivity. These issues exacerbate existing economic and social inequalities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-3746082271\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"g20s-role-in-shaping-digital-transformation\">G20\u2019s Role in Shaping Digital Transformation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The G20 recognises digital transformation as a key driver of sustainable economic growth worldwide. Its Digital Economy Task Force and Ministerial meetings <a href=\"https:\/\/iol.co.za\/news\/south-africa\/2025-08-21-leveraging-g20-presidency-south-africas-path-to-bridging-the-digital-divide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">foster collaboration<\/a> on creating inclusive digital ecosystems. South Africa\u2019s presidency puts an African perspective at the fore, advocating for policies that prioritise universal connectivity, data governance, and digital skills development aligned with African needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"G20 Focus | Digital transformation challenges in SA\" width=\"755\" height=\"425\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/NiiPsdBLFP0?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/NiiPsdBLFP0?si=OajxknNKKmHJna1a\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">YouTube<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"advancing-digital-public-infrastructure\">Advancing Digital Public Infrastructure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A highlight of South Africa\u2019s G20 agenda is the promotion of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). DPI includes shared digital platforms and services that enable affordable <a href=\"https:\/\/g20.org\/track-news\/third-g20-digital-economy-working-group-dewg-meeting-held-in-polokwane\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">access to essential<\/a> online resources. South Africa <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.za\/news\/speeches\/minister-solly-malatsi-second-meeting-digital-economy-working-group-and-task-force-ai\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">seeks to develop<\/a> regionally diverse and inclusive DPI systems that empower citizens and businesses while respecting privacy and security. This initiative is key to expanding digital access efficiently and sustainably.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-3617640587\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tackling-high-data-costs-and-connectivity-gaps\">Tackling High Data Costs and Connectivity Gaps<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the biggest barriers to digital inclusion in South Africa is the high cost of data. South Africa ranks among the most expensive countries globally for mobile internet. To address this, South Africa is promoting regulatory reforms and market liberalisation to boost competition, improve infrastructure, and lower prices. Expanding 4G and 5G networks into underserved areas is a priority to reach rural communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"digital-skills-development-and-education\">Digital Skills Development and Education<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Bridging the divide also means equipping people with the <a href=\"https:\/\/ddp.org.za\/blog\/g20-and-digital-transformation-in-south-africa-reforms-threats-and-opportunities\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">skills to participate<\/a> in the digital economy. South Africa has introduced coding and robotics into school curricula and partnered with global tech firms for training programmes. Upskilling the workforce in areas like cybersecurity and data analytics is essential to harness technology\u2019s benefits and reduce unemployment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1375758596\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ensuring-safe-and-inclusive-digital-spaces\">Ensuring Safe and Inclusive Digital Spaces<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Digital inclusion <a href=\"https:\/\/g20.org\/track\/digital-economy-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">goes beyond<\/a> access; it requires secure, trustworthy digital environments. South Africa advocates for strong data protection, aligned with its Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). The G20 discussions also focus on combating cybercrime and enabling cross-border data flows that support innovation while protecting user rights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"G20 Working Group on Digital Economy and AI\" width=\"755\" height=\"425\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/8wCq4uqO_Sc?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/8wCq4uqO_Sc?si=H-JI91mHu0Asabtp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">YouTube<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"the-broader-impact-economic-and-social-benefits\">The Broader Impact: Economic and Social Benefits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Bridging the digital divide has <a href=\"https:\/\/t20southafrica.org\/about\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">far-reaching benefits<\/a>. Enhanced connectivity spurs economic growth through e-commerce, fintech, and innovation. It improves education by enabling remote learning and access to knowledge. Healthcare services become more accessible with telemedicine, improving outcomes in underserved areas. Digital inclusion fosters social cohesion by linking communities and enabling civic participation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-473871449\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"challenges-ahead-and-the-way-forward\">Challenges Ahead and the Way Forward<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite progress, tackling the digital divide faces hurdles. Regulatory complexities, cybersecurity threats, and infrastructure costs pose ongoing risks. South Africa\u2019s G20 leadership <a href=\"https:\/\/www.undp.org\/digital\/blog\/south-africa-sets-its-ambitious-g20-agenda-digital-public-infrastructure-and-ai\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">aims to mobilise<\/a> international cooperation, technical assistance, and innovative financing to overcome these barriers. Collaboration between governments, private sector, and civil society is critical to deliver inclusive and sustainable digital transformation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"2025 G20 Digital Economy Working Group Gqeberha, Eastern Cape\" width=\"755\" height=\"425\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/e75KFCGYfv0?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/live\/e75KFCGYfv0?si=TywovVjkfIvpl9oM\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">YouTube<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover how South Africa is using its 2025 G20 presidency to lead global efforts in bridging the digital divide through inclusive policies, infrastructure, and digital skills development.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":24597,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_focus_keyword":"","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"Discover how South Africa is using its 2025 G20 presidency to lead global efforts in bridging the digital divide through inclusive policies, infrastructure, and digital skills development.","footnotes":""},"categories":[3298],"tags":[2948,3067,1170,8142,9460],"class_list":{"0":"post-24573","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-technology","8":"tag-cybersecurity","9":"tag-digital-skills","10":"tag-digital-skills-gap","11":"tag-digital-transformation","12":"tag-g20-south-africa"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/24573","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/15"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=24573"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/24573\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":24598,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/24573\/revisions\/24598"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/24597"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=24573"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=24573"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=24573"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}