CYNK

In a move set to redefine the future of integrated business solutions in Africa, Albert Oosthuysen, CEO of Evotel and Net Nine Nine Group, has officially launched CYNK — a dynamic new holding company formed through the strategic merger of five influential enterprises in the technology and investment sectors.

The official unveiling took place on Friday, 11 July 2025, in Sandton, Johannesburg, a milestone event that also coincided with Evotel’s 10-year anniversary and Net Nine Nine’s 5-year anniversary. Together, these anniversaries underscored the journey of two companies that have laid a strong foundation in South Africa’s digital landscape — now converging into something even greater.

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Designed to break down silos and foster innovation, CYNK unites multiple companies under one powerful brand to create a multidisciplinary platform serving corporates, government, and underserved communities across South Africa.

“CYNK is more than just a company; it is a shared vision,” Oosthuysen told shareholders, stakeholders, and partners at the launch. “We’re all in CYNK now. What happened in the past years happened exactly the way it was meant to — in sync. The future is about scaling up, connecting people, and unlocking opportunities across the continent.”

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CYNK brings together the strengths of several pioneering businesses, including:

1. Evotel – Fibre Network Operator (FNO) delivering infrastructure and installations to homes and businesses across South Africa.
2. Magnolia Fibre Tree – Fibre network operator dedicated to stable, reliable, and high-performance residential fibre.
3. Internet for Education (IFE) – An NPO connecting learners to the world, ensuring every child can learn, grow, and compete globally.
4. LinkLayer – An open-access, high-speed fibre optic internet provider focused on future-ready communities.
5. Additional telecommunication channels to be announced as final legal consolidations are completed.

Together, these divisions form a platform that is agile, scalable, and deeply rooted in African innovation.

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CYNK launches with a powerful base of 390,000 homes connected, over 600 employees, 50+ contractors, and 200 schools online. Building on this momentum, Oosthuysen announced an ambitious plan:

2 million homes to be connected within three years.

This growth strategy puts people at the centre, with a strong commitment to creating jobs, empowering young professionals, women, and previously disadvantaged communities.

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The launch drew leaders from across the industry, including Reflex CEO Paul Divall, Nokia MD Toni Pellegrino, and Huawei Director of Integrated Systems, Alex Yuan.

Most importantly, Oosthuysen credited the many contractors and partners who have laid the groundwork for CYNK’s success:

“Everyone here shares a common purpose — to make a difference. We share, we care, we love, and we are passionate about building something that benefits all South Africans.”

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CYNK’s ambitions extend across Africa. Nicholas Thipe, Chief of Staff, confirmed that the company is already preparing to expand into neighbouring countries including Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Eswatini, with further plans for the broader SADC region.

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CYNK is a purpose-driven holding company investing in businesses that make a lasting impact. We believe in nurturing potential, passion, and talent to improve the greater collective — raising the tide for everyone.

• Infinite Partners – A mid-market specialist investment firm capturing South Africa’s growth opportunities.
• Myriad Capital – A group of digital infrastructure, software, and connectivity companies including Reflex, Metrowatt, Automation Exchange, FundX, Telcotech, Open Fibre, Net Nine Nine, Evotel, LinkLayer, and Radio Network Solutions.