Multinational information technology company Société Internationale de Télécommunications Aéronautiques (Sita) South Africa, Dell Technologies and Computer Aid International are collaborating on a project that will bring numerous benefits for a small rural community in Limpopo.

The new joint initiative is establishing a Solar Community Hub that will provide access to clean water through a rainwater collection and filtration system, electricity, connectivity and a variety of educational opportunities for community members who use the hub each year.

It leverages a community-first approach to customise service and product offerings.

The Solar Community Hub, which supports digital inclusion in rural communities, will boost the potential of the Mamaila Community Network, the first village community network Internet service provider in the region, established by the Mamaila Tribal Authority and the Zuri Foundation and powered by Kichose Technology.

The network, which provides essential, reliable connectivity to the Limpopo community, cannot reach its full potential when people do not have access to information and communication technology devices and the skills to use them, the partners said in a statement.

The multifaceted hub, equipped with low-consumption energy technology and solar panels, will enable the expansion of the community-owned network’s coverage and increase the reach of Internet services for community members at discounted rates.

“The hub is critical to make the network accessible to the whole community, while also ensuring community members have access to training and skills for greater financial sustainability in the future.”

The environmentally sustainable hub also aims to promote increased awareness about important environmental and social issues locally and globally.

Local community partner the Zuri Foundation provides on-the-ground support to address the needs of the community.