Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

2 min read | 21:00 pm CAT

South Africa’s internet quality, concerning internet speed, stability and growth, ranks 62nd in the world and is 8% worse than the global average. This is according to a study by Surfshark. The good news is that the country still ranks among the best in Africa, where mobile internet is concerned. It is the most affordable in Africa. This is according to the fourth annual edition of the Digital Quality of Life Index.

2022 is the fourth year of research conducted by Surfshark with categories including internet affordability, internet quality, electronic infrastructure, security and government.

Speaking to Radio Islam International Research Project Manager at Surfshark, Povilas Junas said the five pillars comprise sub-categories. Within those indexes, they are measured, which eventually leads to a single list.

According to the findings, South Africa is better placed in the 2021 report. Junas said it is improving on a global index.

The AI readiness index is part of the electronic government pillar, and South Africa ranks in 64th place.

Regarding measuring internet affordability and the outcome from the findings, Junas said three factors are considered.

“These include the cheapest broadband package, the cost of 1gb on a mobile data package and lastly the average hourly wage in a country.”

These three measurements are then observed for how long it takes an average citizen of each country to afford internet, whether mobile or broadband.

Listen below to the interview with Mufti Yusuf Moosagie and Povilas Junas on Radio Islam’s podcast.