South African telecommunications giant, Vodacom, has issued a statement welcoming the announcement on 08 July by the Competition Commission that it will no longer oppose Vodacom’s proposed acquisition of a 30% interest in Maziv — the custodian of various brands in enterprise and consumer connectivity, digitally-led safety and security, and telecommunications construction and maintenance.
The statement cites the ruling as a significant milestone in Vodacom's ongoing efforts to enhance digital infrastructure and connectivity in South Africa. This development follows additional concessions agreed to by Vodacom and CIVH — the current owner of the fibre assets that will form part of Maziv, including Vumatel and Dark Fibre Africa.
As a result, the Competition Commission will approach the Competition Appeal Court to explain how the expanded set of transaction conditions addresses the concerns that led to the Competition Tribunal’s prohibition of the transaction in October 2024. The Competition Appeal Court is due to consider the matter on 22 July 25.
Commenting on the announcement, Vodacom Group CEO Shameel Joosub said: “We are thrilled with the Competition Commission’s decision, as it aligns with our purpose of connecting people to a better future and our vision of bridging the digital divide through world-class connectivity — reaching more homes and businesses, including underserved communities. Should the transaction be approved by the Competition Appeal Court, I’m confident that it will enable us to accelerate network expansion, help address the cost to communicate and contribute meaningfully to job creation.”
