Capitec’s mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) is the latest to challenge South Africa’s mobile incumbents with a cut-price prepaid data plan.

Capitec Connect said on Wednesday that it now offers a 10GB prepaid bundle for R199. That’s “50% less than industry rates”, it claimed.

Capitec launched Capitec Connect in 2022 and has issued more than a million Sim cards since then – although it did not say how many of those are active subscribers. It roams on Cell C’s network – which, in turn, relies on MTN for last-mile connectivity.

Francois Viviers, group executive of marketing and communications at Capitec, said in a statement that the 10GB plan is a response to changing customer needs in a challenging economy.

Capitec launches MVNO, promising data that doesn’t expire

“Clients that use large amounts of data within a month do not need non-expiry but value lower prices on large bundles,” said Viviers. “We’ve met this need with the new 10GB prepaid bundle to provide much-needed relief in ensuring more people stay connected without adding strain on their budgets.”