Gauteng ICT Summit: 4Mbs on G-Link network

The G-Link project will give citizens access to basic broadband at speeds of between 1-4Mbs over the first three years, says the provincial government.

Speaking at the opening of the 2012 Gauteng ICT Summit at Gallagher Estate today, Gauteng CIO, Lemmy Chappie, said that this would be increased to broadband speeds of over 5Mbs over the next five years.

The Gauteng ICT Summit will provide a platform for government and the ICT industry to engage on the broad roadmap for the development, implementation and maintenance of baseline ICT infrastructure and e-government services in Gauteng private sector.

Chappie explained that the G-Link broadband project would be rolled out in a phased approach and provide both basic basic broadband and rich media access in future phases.

The G-Link Broadband Programme will see the establishment of a single technology platform for the provision of broadband networks in the province – while providing government services and improving network access and connectivity.

Chappie noted the project was aimed at improving digital inclusion – while enriching the speed of connectivity and providing citizens with broadband speeds necessary to access to rich media.

He added the programme would provide the last “inch” of broadband connectivity for Gauteng residents.

The G-Link project, once implemented, will achieve 95% broadband coverage in the province. Work is currently underway  to ensure the roll-out of network infrastructure between 2012 and 2014.

Feasibility investigations were complete and the Gauteng government was in the process of searching for technology partners as it prepares to roll-out the broadband programme.