State-influenced telecommunications group Telkom SOC Limited has closed its 2026 financial year with revenue reaching R44.5 billion, reinforcing the effectiveness of its pivot toward data-led services and digital infrastructure development.
The results, covering the 12-month period ending 31 March 2026, were acknowledged by Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi, who highlighted the company’s expanding role in advancing national connectivity goals.
Subscriber Growth and Strategic Direction
Telkom’s operational metrics showed continued traction in its consumer and enterprise segments, with the mobile subscriber base climbing to 25 million. The JSE-listed operator—where the South African government maintains a 40.5% shareholding—has increasingly aligned its investments with high-growth areas including fibre deployment, cloud-enabled solutions, and wireless broadband access.
Minister Malatsi noted that the outcomes underscore Telkom’s commitment to strategic discipline and operational optimization. “The results reflect continued progress in the implementation of Telkom’s strategy and demonstrate the value of disciplined execution, operational efficiency and a sustained focus on growth areas,” he said. “They also highlight the growing importance of digital connectivity and data services in South Africa’s economy.”
Dividend Increase Signals Financial Resilience
Bolstered by stronger cash flow and balance sheet metrics, Telkom’s board approved a higher dividend distribution. Shareholders will receive an ordinary dividend of 270 cents per share, representing a 65.7% increase compared to the prior year.
For the national treasury, this translates to an estimated R559 million in dividend proceeds—up from R540 million in FY2025. Minister Malatsi pointed out that these returns support the government’s capacity to fund developmental initiatives and essential public services.
Infrastructure at the Heart of Digital Inclusion
Telkom’s nationwide assets—including its extensive fibre backbone, urban metropolitan networks, and wireless access platforms—were cited by the Minister as foundational to South Africa’s digital transformation agenda. These networks enable broader economic participation, foster innovation ecosystems, and expand access to essential digital services for households and businesses alike.
“Telkom’s extensive fixed and wireless infrastructure continues to play an important role in expanding connectivity and supporting South Africa’s digital transformation objectives,” Malatsi stated.
Leadership Recognition and Forward Outlook
The Minister extended formal appreciation to Telkom’s governance and executive leadership, specifically naming Board Chairperson Geoffrey Qhena and Group Chief Executive Officer Serame Taukobong, alongside the wider employee base for their contributions to the year’s achievements.
Looking ahead, Telkom remains focused on deepening network coverage, accelerating technology upgrades, and forging collaborative partnerships to advance affordable, high-quality digital access across urban and rural communities. As demand for data-intensive applications grows continent-wide, the company’s FY2026 performance positions it as a key enabler of South Africa’s evolving digital economy.
