Walter Isaacson makes interesting observations about innovation in his book The Innovators: How a Group of Hackers, Geniuses and Geeks Created the Digital Revolution.
“But the main lesson to draw from the birth of computers is that innovation is usually a group effort, involving collaboration between visionaries and engineers and that creativity comes from drawing on many sources,” writes Isaacson.
He adds: “Only in storybooks do inventions come like a thunderbolt, or a lightbulb popping out of the head of a lone individual in a basement or garret or garage.”
Why invoke Isaacson’s words? Simply because South Africa’s recent celebration of “affordable smartphones”, while commendable, misses a critical point: true innovation requires more than just mobile devices.
True innovation demands access to powerful tools such as laptops and computers, which remain out of reach for most South Africans.
The jubilation following finance minister Enoch Godongwana’s announcement to exempt smartphones priced at R2,500 or less from the 9% ad valorem excise duty was understandable.
The Association of Comms and Technology — an industry body — hailed the move as a “game-changer” for low-income households, enabling affordable access to internet-enabled devices.
The government’s rationale — to enhance affordability and promote digital inclusion — is noble. By removing the luxury tax, more South Africans still using outdated 2G and 3G phones can now afford basic 4G smartphones. This upgrade is vital for more people to embrace a connected, modern digital life. Affordable smartphones are indeed vital for bridging the digital divide, providing tools for communication, education, and economic participation.
But let’s not confuse access to smartphones with the ability to innovate. Smartphones, especially those costing less than R2,500, are not the premium foldable devices or tablets that blur the line between mobility and power. Such smartphones are entry-level tools, perfect for connectivity but limited in their capacity to drive complex, innovation-driven tasks. For such tasks, South Africa needs affordable laptops and computers.
Smartphones democratise access to technology. Computers empower skilled users to create technology.
Computers are the backbone of innovation. They enable software development, data analysis, AI, machine learning and other advanced technologies.
Smartphones democratise access to technology. Computers empower skilled users to create technology.
Without affordable laptops, South Africa risks remaining a consumer of technology rather than a creator.
The digital divide in South Africa is not just about device affordability; it’s also about infrastructure, education, and collaboration.
Many South Africans lack access to electricity, reliable internet and quality education. The education system seems increasingly misaligned with the needs of the modern economy, leaving a skills gap in technology and innovation-driven industries. How can young people take risks and pursue entrepreneurial ventures when they lack opportunities and tools?
And while initiatives such as tech hubs and incubators exist, they are often fragmented and inaccessible to many. High youth unemployment further stifles innovation.
So what’s the solution? In 2023 I proposed the idea of a locally manufactured laptop, built and assembled by South African youth in townships like Soshanguve. I suggested it could be named the “Tutu” laptop, in honour of the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who had a vision of an inclusive society.
I further suggested that this device could be developed in partnership with global manufacturers of laptops.
The Public Investment Corporation and Industrial Development Corporation could fund the initiative, with the government procuring the laptops for use across departments and municipalities. Such a project would not only make laptops affordable but also create jobs and stimulate local manufacturing.
Imagine the impact of every household having access to a quality, affordable laptop. That should be paired with affordable data, a persistent challenge for township and rural dwellers relying on mobile broadband. Only then can South Africa truly begin to close the digital divide.
While the tax exemption on affordable smartphones is a step in the right direction, it’s not enough. South Africa must strive for more. We need affordable laptops and computers to empower our youth, foster innovation and transform the country from being a mere consumer of technology into a creator as well.
As Isaacson reminds us, innovation is a group effort. It’s time for South Africans to come together and build a future where the tools to innovate are accessible to everyone.
The question is: will we settle for affordable smartphones, or will we demand affordable computers and laptops that can truly change the game? The choice is ours.
• Lourie is founder and editor of TechFinancials
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