Vodacom today launched five new base stations on the N7 route in the Springbok area, the administrative capital of Namaqualand, thereby effectively bringing mobile communication to 15 000 community members, covering 90 kilometres of road. This opening marks the second of Vodacom`s three-phased base station roll-out project in the Cape, following the launch of a base station in Middlepos last Saturday, 22 July.
Not only will tourists travelling between towns along the N7 and in the neighbouring country of Namibia now have ubiquitous road coverage, but farmers and other residents in remote areas will also have easy access to emergency and other services.
Vodacom`s Managing Executive Western Region, Alvin Scott, explains Vodacom`s motivation in connecting this community: "Springbok`s main income is generated from tourism, mining activities, historical sites, museums and restaurants. Having cellphone connection can play a significant part in promoting bottom-up socio-economic development, while simultaneously stimulating small businesses and entrepreneurship. This route also gives access to tourists for the annual spring display of flowers in Namaqualand."
Vodacom is the first cellular operator to launch base stations in Kheis, Kharkams, Wolfkop, Arkoep, and the Namaqua Game Lodge. Altogether this provides coverage for the local communities around the base stations and an additional 90 kilometres of coverage on the N7 route to Namibia.
The launch consisted of a fun-filled day of celebration and activities at the Namakwa High School for the whole community, emphasising Vodacom`s commitment to consult and communicate with communities.
"Vodacom continually invests in expanding the network to improve coverage for its customers," concludes Scott. "Besides providing a point of contact and enabling users to participate in the economic system, the Springbok community can now also have more contact and better relationships with family and friends as a result of improved cellular coverage."
An additional launch of Vodacom coverage along this route will be held for the Vredendal community on 28 August 2006.
Share
Set in a narrow valley bisecting the granite domes of the Klein Koperberge, Springbok is the capital of Namaqua and the administrative, commercial, farming and industrial centre. Springbok`s colourful history is closely linked to that of the copper industry and is the site of the first commercial mining operations in the country.
With the new base stations in their region, Springbok farmers now have new business prospects in their reach, such as ecotourism. Ecotourism represents the fastest-growing segment of the tourism industry in South Africa. By giving tourists a taste of an undisturbed and simple lifestyle, farmers can set up recreational trails with accommodation in huts or campsites, offering tourists hikes, bike rides and other activities. Nature lovers are sure to find the Cape and its surroundings of great interest with its rich flora and fauna, its unique fynbos and the variety of animal and birdlife which can be seen and enjoyed.
Editorial contacts