Here’s the translation into American English:
The investment by Yangtze Optics Africa Cable (YOFC) positions South Africa as a leader in local fiber optic cable manufacturing and a skills development hub in technology.
Yangtze Optics Africa Cable (Pty) Ltd (YOA Cable) has consolidated its position as Africa’s largest fiber optic cable manufacturer following a significant expansion of its manufacturing facility located in Dube Trade Port, in the coastal province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the local manufacturing of fiber optics and technological innovation in the region.
Expansion and Job Creation
With this plant expansion, YOA Cable not only responds to the growing demand for high-speed connectivity across the continent but is also generating new job opportunities, especially in leadership roles and training initiatives for young people. Approximately 25% of the new jobs will focus on leadership roles and the YOA Cable Learning and Internship Program, an initiative aligned with South Africa’s Youth Employment Program. This program underscores the company’s commitment to training and developing the next generation of professionals in technology, contributing to the local economy.
The successful localization of natural polyethylene production for fiber optic cable manufacturing by YOA Cable is a significant achievement, as this is the first time in over 20 years that it is produced locally in South Africa. This advancement demonstrates how localizing the fiber optic supply chain positively impacts the country’s economy and technological independence.
Driving South Africa’s Digital Transformation
The plant expansion comes amid a backdrop of accelerated digital transformation, driven by emerging technologies such as 5G and artificial intelligence. The need for high-speed connectivity has never been greater, as key sectors such as education, healthcare, e-commerce, and government services increasingly depend on more advanced and accessible telecommunications infrastructure. With this expansion, YOA Cable positions itself at the forefront of the digital transformation in South Africa, strengthening its competitiveness in a constantly evolving market.
Moreover, the expansion will allow YOA Cable not only to reinforce its presence in South Africa but also to capitalize on new opportunities in neighboring countries where it has already found success, thereby expanding its influence across Africa. This expansion will also contribute to skills development in a highly specialized sector, helping South Africa to become a benchmark in fiber optic cable manufacturing.
Reaction from the South African Government
The Government of South Africa has welcomed YOA Cable’s investment in the country’s digital infrastructure. Yunus Hoosen, Director of Invest SA within the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), highlighted that “this expansion marks a key moment in the country’s drive toward digital inclusion and strengthening local manufacturing capabilities.” Hoosen emphasized that this investment is a critical component of the country’s digital transformation strategy and noted that ongoing collaboration between the private sector and the government is helping to create a more connected, inclusive, and innovative economy for all South Africans.
Impact on Connectivity and Digital Inclusion
The ability to locally manufacture fiber optic cables and develop specialized expertise in this technology will enable YOA Cable to collaborate directly with telecommunications operators and fiber network owners to create tailored and cost-effective products. This will be key to expanding broadband internet access, narrowing the connectivity gap, and providing access in rural and remote areas, which will in turn foster the economic and social participation of these communities.
Global Vision and Commitment to Reducing the Digital Divide
Since 2014, Yangtze Optical Fibre and Cable Joint Stock Limited Company (YOFC) has significantly expanded its international operations as part of its globalization roadmap. Today, YOFC has over 50 offices worldwide and has established eight production facilities in six countries: Indonesia, South Africa, Brazil, Poland, Germany, and Mexico. This strategic distribution network enables it to customize its operations according to local demands.
Your goal is to bring fiber optic connectivity to all corners of the world; YOFC is committed to overcoming digital inequalities and contributing to global economic development. The company collaborates with industry leaders worldwide to promote the adoption of fiber optic technology and ensure that everyone has access to more reliable and high-quality network connections.
The Future of Connectivity in Africa
The expansion of YOA Cable’s plant is a significant step towards modernizing telecommunications infrastructure in Africa, a continent where connectivity remains a challenge in many regions. As the world moves towards a digital future, investing in local fiber optic manufacturing and training professionals in this specialized sector will be crucial to ensuring that Africa can stay at the forefront of technological innovation.
A Step Forward for the Telecommunications Industry
This development underscores South Africa and the African continent’s commitment to technological progress. With the increasing demand for high-quality telecommunications infrastructure, YOA Cable’s significant investments in local fiber optic cable production demonstrate how emerging economies can play a crucial role in expanding global connectivity and reducing the digital divide.
via: Prnewswire