NET99 BRINGS HOPE THROUGH SPORT!

A breath of fresh air is sweeping through the dusty streets of Hebron, one of the fastest-growing communities in the North West Province, and for many young people, that fresh air represents renewed hope, opportunity and a brighter future.

Just over a decade ago, youth development and career growth opportunities in the predominantly Setswana-speaking community were almost non-existent, despite the area producing graduates from colleges and universities, but many found themselves unemployed, discouraged and uncertain about their future prospects.

Through a growing partnership between Net Nine Nine, a closed-access fibre network operator, and the Bakwena ba Mogopa Traditional Authority, a new chapter of community development is unfolding.

The collaboration has not only improved digital connectivity in the area but has also created employment opportunities and sparked meaningful social investment initiatives.

Approximately 50 young people from Hebron have already secured employment through Net Nine Nine as sales agents, while others have found opportunities as office administrators, contractors and technicians responsible for building and maintaining the fibre network infrastructure across the rapidly developing area.

The partnership has also enabled hundreds of residents to gain access to affordable, contract-free unlimited fibre internet packages, helping bridge the digital divide and opening doors to education, entrepreneurship and remote work opportunities.

Residents can choose from a range of affordable fibre packages, including:

• Choko Package (20 Mbps Down / 10 Mbps Up) – R379 per month: ideal for streaming and connecting up to five devices.

• Five Tiga 50/50 Mbps – R499 per month: suitable for households with 10 to 15 connected devices.

• Klipa Package (100 Mbps Down / 100 Mbps Up) – R699 per month: designed for heavy internet users, professionals and larger households.

Beyond internet connectivity, Net Nine Nine has demonstrated its commitment to community upliftment through a variety of development programmes.

One of the most impactful initiatives was the Entrepreneurs and Employment Information Day, which brought together business specialists, industry experts and aspiring entrepreneurs.

The event provided valuable guidance on business development, employment opportunities and participation in the growing digital economy.

The objective was simple yet powerful: to equip community members with practical knowledge, inspire innovation and encourage self-sufficiency among local residents, particularly young people.

As part of the initiative, several local small businesses received equipment and resources to help them grow. Two nail technicians received start-up kits, a make-up artist was awarded a complete professional set to launch her business, while a mathematics tutor received a laptop to support her educational work with learners. Additional support was extended to entrepreneurs operating in the fields of computer literacy and beauty services.

Building on this momentum, Net Nine Nine recently turned its attention to sport and youth development by hosting the Under-21 Soccer Tournament and Market Day at Rolling Stars Sports Ground.

The tournament formed part of the company’s ongoing commitment to creating safe recreational spaces while identifying and nurturing young sporting talent. It also served as another example of the strong working relationship between Net99 and Bakwena ba Mogopa, whose shared vision continues to deliver tangible benefits to the community.

Football enthusiasts were treated to an exciting showcase of local talent as Black FC took on Swenkas FC, while S’Quad FC battled Young Stars in highly competitive fixtures that attracted enthusiastic support from community members.

The event was about much more than football.

Local SMMEs were given an opportunity to market and sell their products to spectators, helping stimulate economic activity within the community.

At the same time, organisers encouraged residents and visitors to donate blankets, clothing, sanitary products and toiletries for vulnerable families, demonstrating the spirit of Ubuntu that continues to define Hebron.

According to event organiser Freddy Piroa, proceeds generated from the tournament and market day will be directed towards supporting the Hebron Skills Development and Information Centre, an institution dedicated to empowering local residents through education, training and skills development programmes.

As Hebron continues to grow, Net99 proves that meaningful development extends beyond infrastructure through investing in connectivity, entrepreneurship, employment and sport, the partners are helping build a community where young people can dream bigger, participate actively in the economy and create a better future for themselves.

For many residents, the fibre cables running beneath the streets are carrying more than internet connectivity, they are carrying hope.