NET99 BRINGS JOY TO BHEKUZULU!

Voices of ululation, singing and dancing echoed through the air as gogos with walking sticks gathered at a community hall in Bhekuzulu, Vryheid, in the Zululand District.

Wrapped in colourful scarves and warm smiles, they made their way to the venue with excitement and curiosity, unaware that the day would bring comfort, dignity and joy.

It was here, on 28 March 2026, that the closed-access fibre network operator (FNO), Net Nine Nine, brought warmth not only through blankets, but through a heartfelt gesture of care and community.

As part of its ongoing mission to change lives across eight provinces, Net99, South Africa’s leading internet service provider (ISP), extended its reach beyond connectivity and into the heart of social responsibility.

The company donated 100 blankets along with essential goodies to elderly residents in Bhekuzulu, reaffirming its commitment to uplifting communities that often go unnoticed.

The event was a celebration of life, resilience and appreciation.

Elderly men and women, fondly referred to as the “golden oldies,” arrived in numbers, leaning on walking sticks yet full of spirit. Gospel songs of joy filled the hall, and spontaneous dances broke out as they welcomed the visitors who had come bearing gifts.

For many, it was more than just a donation, it was a reminder that they are seen, valued and remembered.

Net99 Brand Coordinator, Khumiso Selobile, addressed the gathering with warmth and sincerity, highlighting the company’s dedication to meaningful community impact.

“Today is about you,” she said. “We recognise your strength, your contribution to society and the sacrifices you have made. These blankets are a small token of our appreciation, but they come with love and respect.”

Her words were met with applause and ululations, as some of the elderly even made their way to the stage to dance, proudly showing their energy and joy.

KwaZulu-Natal Regional Manager, Robert Nene, echoed this sentiment, emphasising that Net99’s role goes beyond fibre connectivity.

“We are not just here to install infrastructure,” he said, drawing laughter from the crowd. “We are here to build relationships, to support and to uplift. Our work is about connecting people, not only through the internet, but through compassion and humanity.”

As the distribution began, each gogo received a blanket along with a bag of essential goodies.

With winter approaching and weather patterns becoming increasingly unpredictable, the timing of the donation could not have been more appropriate. The blankets symbolised warmth and protection, while the additional items offered practical support during the colder months ahead.

Smiles lit up the room as recipients held their blankets close, some immediately wrapping themselves in the soft fabric, while others raised their hands in gratitude, offering blessings to the Net99 team.

Beyond the distribution, the day was also about connection. Net99 staff engaged with the elderly, listening to their stories, laughing with them and sharing in their joy.

Many of the attendees shared that their children and grandchildren are Net99 clients, adding a deeper sense of community connection to the initiative.

These interactions created lasting memories that will remain long after the blankets have served their purpose.

The event concluded on a high note with a delicious lunch prepared by Net99’s Bhekuzulu staff. Plates were filled, conversations flowed and the hall remained alive with laughter and song.

For many attendees, it was more than just a meal, it was a rare and meaningful celebration where they felt appreciated and connected.

This initiative forms part of Net99’s broader vision of community upliftment across South Africa.

While the company continues to expand its fibre network and contribute to the country’s digital transformation, it remains grounded in the belief that true progress must include social impact.

By investing in people, especially the most vulnerable, Net99 is helping to build stronger, more resilient communities, proving that real connection goes far beyond the internet.