Azra Hoosen | ah@radioislam.co.za
20 June 2024 | 12:00 CAT
2 min read

In a remarkable journey from the rural Eastern Cape to the forefront of Africa’s digital landscape, Nomso Kana has emerged as a pioneering figure in broadband technology. Kana, founder of Simsciex Technologies, is not only a distinguished nuclear scientist but also a leader in energy and policy.

Originating from the rural Eastern Cape, her journey from nuclear scientist to ICT entrepreneur has been marked by resilience and vision. Nomso’s company focuses on bridging the digital divide through innovative broadband solutions across Africa.

“Where you come from does not define you,” Kana said.

She attributes her success to her parents, describing them as inspirational figures who paved the way for her from a young age. They instilled in her discipline, which has been a constant throughout her studies and has propelled her to where she is today.

According to Kana, when examining connectivity in rural areas, the outlook appears exceedingly bleak.

“Someone needs the structure at home to access the internet and access to wifi in their home. This is where my business identified a gap in the rural areas. When you bring in broadband infrastructure and access, you are bridging a gap as now internet connectivity has become a social need. It is important that this access is made available,” she said.

Kana pointed out that the government is also making an effort with an initiative known as ‘SA Connect’ that aims to bolster connectivity stability, recognising its pivotal role in fostering economic development.

Despite challenges in navigating monopolised markets, Nomso remains committed to providing high-speed internet to rural communities, aiming to equalise connectivity across the continent.

“I would not even call what we are doing as a drop in the ocean, but what has been consistent is seeing the monopolised environments obviously dominated by big companies that it would take almost 20 years to get to a stage where they fully offer all the value-chain services that consist within the internet connection,” she said.

Her impact extends beyond business, advocating for women in STEM and driving economic growth through enhanced digital access.

“People are not used to hearing solutions from a different race, gender and voice. But it is beautiful, now I see a lot of women-owned internet service providers, even doing the hard work of putting fibre cables down and more,” she said.

Kana emphasised that when she observed the younger generation, it’s clear they draw considerable inspiration from using technology to tackle their most pressing socio-economic challenges.

“We need to get our youth to understand they need to industrialise, they cannot only consume, they need to create things from scratch using creativity,” she advised.

Kana emphasized the importance of individuals playing an active role in building our society.

LISTEN to the full interview with Mualimah Annisa Essack and Nuclear Scientist, Nomso Kana, here.