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Telkom’s voice era is over. Data now pays the bills

Published 4 August 2026

Telkom Group, South Africa's legacy telecom operator, has data now accounting for nearly two-thirds of its operating revenue.

The shift to a data-driven business model is a result of Telkom's efforts to diversify its revenue streams and stay relevant in a rapidly changing market. The company's data revenue growth has been driven by a combination of factors, including the increasing demand for mobile data, the expansion of its network coverage, and the introduction of new data-centric products and services. Key metrics include:
* 64% of operating revenue now comes from data
* 20% increase in data revenue over the past year
* 30% decline in voice revenue over the past three years

The economic implications of this shift are significant, with Telkom's data revenue now outpacing its voice revenue by a wide margin. The company's financial reports reveal that data revenue has increased by 20% over the past year, while voice revenue has declined by 10%. This trend is expected to continue, with data revenue projected to drive the company's growth in the coming years. The market impact of this shift is also noteworthy, as it reflects a broader trend in the telecom industry towards data-driven business models.

The shift to a data-driven business model is not unique to Telkom, as the global telecom industry is undergoing a similar transformation. The rise of OTT services and the increasing demand for mobile data have led to a decline in traditional voice revenue, while data revenue has become the primary driver of growth. As noted by industry expert,
> "The telecom industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the increasing demand for mobile data and the rise of OTT services. Companies that adapt to this changing landscape will be well-positioned for growth, while those that fail to adapt will struggle to remain relevant."

The future of Telkom's business will be shaped by its ability to continue innovating and adapting to the changing needs of its customers. The company's investment in network infrastructure and data-centric products will be critical in driving its growth in the coming years. As the demand for mobile data continues to increase, Telkom will need to stay ahead of the curve, introducing new products and services that meet the evolving needs of its customers.

Telkom's transition to a data-driven business model marks a significant milestone in the company's history, and reflects a broader trend in the telecom industry. The company's ability to adapt to this changing landscape has been crucial in its transition, and will continue to shape its business in the coming years. As the telecom industry continues to evolve, companies like Telkom will need to stay agile and innovative, introducing new products and services that meet the evolving needs of their customers.

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