March 5, 2007
By Tammy O'Reilly
THE City of Johannesburg is taking the first step towards establishing a citywide broadband network by calling for submissions from potential partners.
Through the request for information (RFI) process, the City will shortlist candidates who, through creating demonstration networks, can show their ability to carry out the project. The deadline for the RFI responses is Friday, 30 March and a compulsory briefing session for all bidders will be held on Thursday, 8 March.
Broadband refers to a telecommunications system in which a wide band of frequencies is able to transmit information. It allows more information to be exchanged faster, and at a lower cost. It is mainly used for internet access, but it is also used to transmit television signals, at call centres, for telephone communications and in business.
The project will cost R500-million, of which R400-million is being sought from the private sector.
The purpose of the broadband project is to build a strong information technology infrastructure and to bring information and communication technology closer to citizens. Initially it will be open to the City, but the plan is to roll out the network across Johannesburg, to benefit all residents and visitors.
It will also assist the City in the run up to, and during, the 2010 Fifa World Cup, when the demand for fast, up-to-date telecommunications is expected to be very high.
It will also enable improved service delivery in the areas of traffic control, recording data at clinics and hospitals and free internet access at City-run places such as libraries, youth centres and People Centres.
"The development of a citywide broadband network has been in the pipeline for some time and is in line with international trends in municipal broadband deployment," says Douglas Cohen, the City's information and communications technology sector support project consultant.
"Cities around the world are increasing the availability and accessibility of telecommunications to improve service delivery, education and economic development."
The successful bidder is expected to be appointed by the end of the year. Copies of the RFI are available in the contracts section on the 15th floor of the Metro Centre, 158 Loveday Street, Braamfontein.
The briefing session takes place at the National Museum of Military History, 22 Erlswold Way, Saxonwold, on Thursday, 8 March at 10am.
For more information about the tenders, click here, or contact Douglas Cohen on 011 358 3870 or by email at douglasc@joburg.org.za.
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