Powering a Vision of Progress
In the heart of Pretoria, a striking landmark now anchors South Africa’s national vision for land reform and rural development. The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) has a new headquarters – designated an official National Key Point facility, purpose-built for both administrative excellence and national security.
From the ground up, Data Connectivity Solutions (DCS) was entrusted with the critical role of supplying, installing, implementing, and maintaining a robust, high-tech security and IT infrastructure compliant with National Key Point standards for this monumental facility.
DCS was privileged to contribute to the design of every system. From access control to CCTV to asset tracking to a fully compliant Cisco enterprise network encompassing voice, data, telephony, Wi-Fi, and unified communications – each component had to be executed thoughtfully across an expansive environment. The project spanned five buildings covering 80,000 square meters, with complex interdependencies and meticulous technical specifications.
As one of the largest projects DCS has undertaken, this assignment represented a national responsibility that we approached with determination and purpose.
“This project stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, innovation, and unwavering dedication. It’s more than a building—it’s a beacon of our nation’s aspirations.”
- Errol Boolkin CEO
From the earliest planning stages, DCS was engaged not just as a systems integrator but as a strategic partner.
Integration
DCS’s scope spanned security architecture, project management, and full regulatory alignment—ensuring seamless integration with the building’s award-winning design while maintaining compliance with National Key Point standards.
Collaboration with engineering teams allowed technology to be embedded without disrupting the facility’s aesthetic or spatial logic. This early integration was essential to future-proofing the system.
Technology in Action
LAPTOP TAGGING SYSTEM
A metal-tag-based tracking system integrated into the Gallagher access control system ensured data asset integrity. Laptop’s are monitored at entry/exit points with automatic alerts for unauthorized movement and asset tracking.
X-RAY & METAL DETECTION
Deployed at key ingress points, these screening tools meet governmental standards for critical areas, preventing unauthorized items from entering sensitive zones
SURVEILLANCE
Access events are instantly linked to live video for real-time verification. Intelligent automation enables responsive actions such as camera shifts or door lockdowns upon suspicious activity. Investigations are streamlined through synchronized playback of footage and access logs.
BIOMETRICS
Biometric scanners paired with access cards provide two-factor authentication, ensuring dual identity verification and full audit trails across restricted areas as required
ACCESS CONTROL
A robust Gallagher Enterprise Access system formed the backbone of site security system, managing entry and exits via tiered credentials, time windows, and zone-based restrictions. Alarms and alerts support rapid incident response.
Trusted Systems, Seamless Partnerships
GALLAGHER
With over 220 Gallagher-controlled entry/exit points, the system integrates secure card and biometric access with intelligent event tracking and full integration into the Avigilon CCTV system. Gallagher’s hands-on support during rollout ensured a seamless implementation.
CISCO
Cisco’s Unified Contact Center Express (UCCX) enabled scalable communications across departments with 2,200+ IP phones, real-time routing, VoIP, and centralized management. Their team ensured smooth testing and integration.
NETWORK
A Cisco enterprise network with a 10 Gbps backbone ensures low-latency connectivity across the facility, supporting data, voice, Wi-Fi, and unified communications. The infrastructure runs on a Molex Cat6 cabling system certified for 25 years, ensuring performance and reliability.
Every supplier delivered best-in-class technology, local support, integration expertise, and an understanding of operational demands.
AVIGILON
With more than 400 high-resolution Avigilon CCTV cameras running on their ACC software platform, the centralized monitoring system delivers a dynamic overview of all camera feeds. It highlights critical events for swift operator response and includes features such as Appearance Search, Unusual Activity Detection, motion tracking, missing and object placement detection, as well as human, vehicle and animal detection. These advanced analytics set new standards for surveillance within government infrastructure
Resilience and Patience
As with any large-scale government project, challenges arose. Delays due to phased approvals, shifting requirements, and budget adjustments tested the team.
DCS adapted through agile planning and close collaboration with contractors and DALRRD stakeholders. Our ability to adjust without compromising quality is a core strength.
A guiding principle was to empower the local economy. Wherever possible, DCS sourced local materials and technical skills, promoting job creation, skills development, and long-term knowledge transfer.
“Even with the red tape and moving goalposts, the project delivered on spec and on budget. That’s the difference when your crew understands both the paperwork and the spade-work.”
- Tshepo Molefe, Project Manager
Infrastructure for a New Era
The new headquarters balances modern aesthetics with institutional functionality. Wide corridors, open-plan workspaces, and collaborative zones foster departmental synergy.
Circulation through the space is fluid and intuitive, with wide corridors, open-plan workspaces, and collaborative zones designed to foster communication across departments.
“This facility isn’t just a new building, it’s a foundation for what comes next.”
Security systems are discreetly integrated into the architectural design, preserving the building’s clean lines and transparency
Built for the Nation.
Designed for the Future.
As South Africa advances its goals in land reform and rural development, the DALRRD’s headquarters offers a secure, intelligent platform to support this mission.
Backed by advanced technology, secured by world-class systems, and made possible through local collaboration, this facility is a powerful symbol of national progress.
From design to delivery, this project showcases the precision, collaboration, and technical excellence that define DCS.
Technology You Can Trust. People You Can Rely On.
Ready to Build?
