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![The City of Joburg will expand access to its free WiFi network.](https://www.itweb.co.za/static/pictures/2014/08/resized/Free-WiFi.xl.jpg)
The City of Johannesburg (COJ) plans to expand access to its free WiFi network, as it looks to edge closer to the same number of hotspots found in the City of Tshwane.
Last year, the COJ recorded 408 free WiFi hotspots, while Tshwane ? with some 800 free WiFi zones ? has been hailed for having the most access to WiFi zones for its residents.
Presenting his first State of the City Address yesterday, executive mayor Herman Mashaba said the city plans to enhance access to free WiFi and ICT in order to build towards a smart city.
According to Mashaba, this forms part of the city's strategy to encourage innovation and efficiency through its smart city programme.
We will also aggressively expand the rollout of our free WiFi network across the city, the mayor said during his speech. "This will include rollout to public libraries and municipal clinics."
Mashaba's plans to create a smart city echo those of Gauteng premier David Makhura during his State of the Province Address last year.
Makhura pointed out the provincial government is committed to provide connectivity for all and will ensure the Gauteng province reaches full broadband connectivity within the next three years.
According to him, the broadband plans are in line with the vision of creating a smart province and modernised Gauteng.
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