Mobile communication platforms have become essential in today’s digital landscape connecting communities, supporting education, and enabling business activity across urban and rural areas alike.
As digital access becomes a key driver of development, affordable and inclusive platforms are proving to be game changers for emerging markets.
Softmeet, a proudly South African-built social platform, is doing just that. The cloud-based app offers a full suite of social communication tools—including posts, stories, messaging, live interactions, and more—designed for low-data environments. Most notably, its real-time chat feature works completely without data or airtime, providing free access to messaging for users in underserved areas.
The platform is reimagining how people connect by reducing data dependency and opening the door to meaningful digital participation in communities that are often left behind in the tech space.
Softmeet Chief Executive Officer, Lebogang Maloisane, says South Africa’s digital divide remains a pressing issue, particularly in rural and township regions. “With many communities still facing high data costs and inconsistent access to the internet, even something as basic as messaging becomes a challenge,” Maloisane said, adding that “Softmeet was built to change that.”
Maloisane further indicated that the app’s data-free chat feature is helping users from townships and rural areas stay connected without needing to spend on data, promoting digital inclusion and equitable access to online spaces.
Softmeet is also supporting local development by providing social tools that go beyond messaging. Users can share updates, stories, live streams, and even participate in a built-in marketplace making the platform both social and functional for everyday needs.
The company wants to start rolling out community activation events across Gauteng and Mpumalanga, including key locations like Schools, Malls, and TVET colleges. These events aim to introduce more people to the platform, showcase how the data-free chat works, and encourage digital participation in communities where tech adoption has traditionally lagged behind.
“Softmeet isn’t just an app it’s a platform for empowerment,” said Maloisane. “We are actively working with schools, youth groups, and social enterprises to bring real digital access to the people who need it most.”
With features tailored for low-data environments, Softmeet is helping South Africans connect, collaborate, and participate in the digital economy—one message at a time.
To learn more about Softmeet or explore opportunities to collaborate, visit www.softmeet.africa or contact info@softmeet.africa.
