Regulators Greenlight Vodacom’s Strategic Fibre Network Investment in Maziv.

This approval marks a significant milestone in Vodacom’s strategic efforts to expand its fibre footprint and enhance digital connectivity across South Africa

Vodacom Group has secured final regulatory approval to acquire a 30% stake in Maziv, the parent company of fibre network operators Vumatel and Dark Fibre Africa (DFA), marking a significant step in South Africa’s telecommunications sector. The deal, valued at around R13.2 billion, had been under review by the Competition Commission and Competition Tribunal due to potential concerns over market dominance and fair competition.

The Competition Tribunal’s approval comes with a series of conditions designed to protect consumer interests and promote competition in the fibre market. Among the key commitments, Vodacom and Maziv will ensure open-access policies on fibre networks, maintain wholesale pricing transparency, and avoid discriminatory practices that could disadvantage competitors. Additionally, Maziv will continue to expand fibre coverage, particularly in underserved and rural areas, as part of broader efforts to bridge South Africa’s digital divide.

Vodacom’s investment aligns with its strategy to diversify its service offerings and strengthen its position in the fast-growing fixed broadband market, complementing its mobile network business. Fibre infrastructure is increasingly seen as essential for delivering high-speed internet, supporting digital transformation, and enabling emerging technologies such as 5G, IoT, and cloud computing.

Through this stake, Vodacom aims to leverage Maziv’s extensive fibre network to deliver improved connectivity solutions for households, businesses, and government institutions. Maziv’s portfolio, including Vumatel’s residential fibre reach and DFA’s long-haul and metropolitan fibre networks, offers substantial synergies for Vodacom’s existing infrastructure.

Industry analysts view the approval as a positive move for accelerating South Africa’s broadband rollout, though they note that careful regulatory oversight will be essential to ensure fair competition. If executed effectively, the partnership could help close connectivity gaps, stimulate economic growth, and enhance digital inclusion across the country.