ZADNA to cut down .CO.ZA Domains to use a more Powerful .ZA by 2028

South Africa’s digital landscape is experiencing a notable shift as the .ZA Domain Name Authority (ZADNA) revises its ambitious growth projections for the country’s premier commercial domain, .co.za. This strategic adjustment in registration targets signals a maturing market focused on quality, security, and sustainability rather than sheer volume. For businesses, entrepreneurs, and website owners across the nation, understanding this change is crucial in an era where online presence defines success.

The recent announcement from ZADNA’s 2026/27 Annual Performance Plan has sparked discussions about the future of .co.za domains. While some view it as a cautious recalibration amid slower net growth, others see it as a positive move toward building a more resilient digital ecosystem. This in-depth article delves into the details, implications, historical context, opportunities, and practical advice for South African domain users and stakeholders.

What Exactly Is the Big Change for .CO.ZA Domains?

In early May 2026, ZADNA revealed adjustments to its commercial .ZA domain registration targets, particularly lowering expectations for the 2028/29 and 2029/30 financial years. The reduction amounts to 9,534 registrations per year for those periods compared to previous plans.

This refinement does not indicate declining demand. ZADNA emphasizes that .ZA remains stable and growing, driven by local businesses and individuals seeking credible South African digital identities. The change reflects a move from aggressive post-pandemic forecasts to more realistic, evidence-based goals aligned with global industry trends.

Key Details from ZADNA’s Revised Performance Plan

The table comparing targets shows no change in the near term but a deliberate scaling back for later years:

• 2025/2026 to 2027/2028: Targets unchanged at around 268,748 to 275,466 registrations.
• 2028/2029 and 2029/2030: Reduced from 285,000 to 275,466 each year.

ZADNA’s PR and marketing manager, Angel Selebano, highlighted a broader focus: “Our focus is not only on growing registrations, but on ensuring that the .ZA namespace continues to serve as a trusted, secure, and nationally relevant digital identity platform.”

This shift prioritizes retention, utilization, security, and long-term value over rapid expansion.

Historical Growth and Recent Trends in the .CO.ZA Namespace

.CO.ZA has been South Africa’s digital backbone for decades. From humble beginnings, it grew to over a million registrations, becoming Africa’s largest country-code domain space.

However, growth has moderated. Net additions averaged nearly 55,000 domains annually from 2015 to 2020 but fell to about 18,000 per year between 2021 and 2024. In some periods, deletions even outpaced new registrations. Despite this, 2025 and early 2026 showed positive net gains, with over 26,000 net additions recorded recently.

The Transition to Modern Registry Systems

A major evolution was the shift from the legacy email-based system to a modern EPP (Extensible Provisioning Protocol) registry-registrar model. This enabled instant registrations, easier management, multi-year options (up to 5 years), and improved security features like domain transfer locks.

The legacy system decommissioning in 2025 forced many users to migrate to accredited registrars, streamlining operations but requiring adaptation. These technical upgrades support ZADNA’s current emphasis on quality over quantity.

Why ZADNA Adjusted .CO.ZA Targets: Strategic Reasons and Global Context

ZADNA attributes the adjustment to a regular review of planning conventions and a maturing global domain industry. Many registries now adopt conservative forecasts emphasizing sustainability.

“The authority has now reassessed these trends to ensure future goals remain realistic, evidence-based, and achievable,” ZADNA stated, underscoring a commitment to long-term ecosystem health.

Factors influencing this include:

• Economic pressures affecting SMEs.
• Competition from global .com domains as companies internationalize.
• Rising focus on cybersecurity and domain abuse prevention.
• Emphasis on active, utilized websites rather than parked domains.

Notable Companies Moving Away from .CO.ZA

Several prominent South African entities have migrated to .com, including Advtech (to groupadvtech.com), Investec, Absa, and Anglo American. These moves often reflect global ambitions but highlight the need for .ZA to strengthen its appeal for local and regional branding.

Positive Opportunities Arising from This Strategic Shift

Far from being negative, ZADNA’s recalibration opens several advantages for the .co.za ecosystem.

Enhanced Focus on Security and Trust

With lower volume targets, resources shift toward combating abuse, implementing DNSSEC, registry locks, and better WHOIS management. This builds greater confidence among users and search engines.

Better Retention and Utilization Strategies

Emphasis on keeping domains active encourages registrars to offer improved services like bundled hosting, email, and security tools. This benefits end-users with more value-packed offerings.

Affordability and Accessibility Improvements

Stable targets may lead to competitive pricing and promotions. Multi-year registrations and simplified transfers make .co.za more attractive for startups and established businesses alike.

SEO and Local Market Advantages

.CO.ZA domains continue to provide strong local SEO signals for South African searches. Google and other engines prioritize geo-relevant results, giving .co.za sites an edge in domestic markets.

“The .ZA namespace remains a trusted and nationally significant digital asset that continues to support South Africa’s digital economy,” ZADNA affirmed.

Challenges Facing .CO.ZA Domain Owners and Registrars

While the change is strategic, stakeholders must navigate certain hurdles.

Slower Perceived Growth and Brand Perception

Public perception of slowing growth could influence decisions, especially for companies eyeing international expansion. Education campaigns are vital to counter this.

Migration and Legacy System Aftermath

Users still transitioning post-2025 decommissioning need support. Proper registrar selection ensures seamless management.

Competition from Alternative Domains

Newer options like .africa or premium global extensions challenge .co.za. However, the local relevance of .co.za remains a powerful differentiator.

Economic and Regulatory Factors

Fluctuating exchange rates, compliance requirements, and broader economic conditions impact registration volumes.

How to Choose and Manage Your .CO.ZA Domain Effectively in 2026

Navigating the updated landscape requires informed decisions.

Best Practices for Registration and Renewal

• Opt for accredited registrars offering EPP features, transfer locks, and multi-year terms.
• Enable DNSSEC and monitoring tools for enhanced security.
• Renew early to lock in current rates and avoid deletion risks.
• Use descriptive, brandable names that reflect your South African identity.

SEO Optimization for .CO.ZA Websites

Combine your domain with quality local content, mobile optimization, and fast hosting. Local backlinks and Google Business Profile integration amplify visibility.

Cost Considerations and Value Comparison

.CO.ZA often proves more affordable long-term than .com, especially with ZAR pricing. Factor in renewal rates, bundled services, and potential insurance-like benefits from trusted local domains.

The Broader Impact on South Africa’s Digital Economy

.CO.ZA domains power countless SMEs, e-commerce sites, blogs, and government services. A focus on quality strengthens the national digital brand, supporting job creation, innovation, and inclusion.

ZADNA’s approach aligns with national goals for digital transformation, emphasizing trust and resilience amid global uncertainties.

Future Outlook: Innovation and Resilience

Expect advancements in AI-driven domain tools, improved abuse prevention, and potential integrations with emerging technologies. .CO.ZA is poised to remain foundational while evolving.

Practical Tips for Businesses and Individuals

1. Audit existing domains for security and utilization.
2. Consider registering variations for brand protection.
3. Partner with reputable local registrars for expert guidance.
4. Monitor ZADNA and ZARC updates regularly.
5. Invest in website development that maximizes domain potential.

“CO.ZA – South Africa’s top digital identifier” continues to evolve, celebrating its legacy while embracing necessary changes.

Case Studies: Successful .CO.ZA Strategies

Local businesses thriving with .co.za demonstrate its enduring value through strong community ties, targeted marketing, and reliable online operations. Educational institutions and agricultural enterprises particularly benefit from local domain trust.

A Mature, Secure Future for .CO.ZA in South Africa

ZADNA’s adjustment of .co.za registration targets represents a thoughtful, positive evolution rather than a setback. By prioritizing quality, security, and sustainability, South Africa’s domain ecosystem is strengthening its foundation for long-term success.

For website owners, this is an opportune moment to invest confidently in .co.za domains. The namespace’s national significance, combined with modern management tools, ensures it remains a powerful asset for digital growth.

As South Africa advances its digital economy, .co.za domains will continue playing a pivotal role—more secure, valuable, and relevant than ever. Embrace the change, optimize your online presence, and contribute to a robust national digital identity.

The table below compares ZADNA’s commercial .ZA domain registration targets highlighted in its 2025/26 and 2026/27 annual performance plans.

Additional Relevant Quotes:

“Following a regular review of its planning conventions, ZADNA has adjusted its projected commercial registration targets…” — ZADNA Official Statement.

“We are also very much an international business and wanted our Internet presence to convey this, hence the move from ‘.co.za’ to ‘.com.’” — Advtech Group CEO Geoff Whyte.

“The demand for .ZA domain registrations remains stable and continues to grow…” — ZADNA.