Vodacom\u2019s big strategy and aspiration is to be Africa\u2019s largest Internet provider. This is according to the company\u2019s chief commercial officer Phil Patel.<\/p>\n
\u201cToday we have 25 million active Internet users, and we think we can more than double that in the next couple of years,\u201d said Patel.<\/p>\n
\u201cAt the moment only 27% of people living in South Africa\u2019s emerging markets have access to smart devices. We aim to double that number in the next year,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n
Vodacom recently launched its Smart Kicka smartphone, which Patel said is part of the company\u2019s strategy to grow its Internet user base.<\/p>\n
\u201cOne of the key barriers is the cost of a device,\u201d said Patel. \u201cThe Smart Kicka is not only affordable, coming in at around the US$50 level, but also offers the best from a technology perspective.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cBy including Power Bundles we\u2019re making it easy for first time internet users to experience the web \u2013 whether it\u2019s downloading music or catching up with friends on Facebook,\u201d said Patel.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur strategy is to provide customers, particularly those on tight budgets, with exactly what they need, when they need it, and at a price they can afford.\u201d<\/p>\n