Starlink May Finally Launch In South Africa By Mid-2025

Starlink, the satellite internet provider owned by Elon Musk's SpaceX , could soon expand its services to South Africa, thanks to upcoming regulatory changes,

These adjustments, anticipated to be finalised by mid-2025, may clear the way for Starlink to legally operate in the country, where it has been eyeing entry for some time.

The Department of Communication and Digital Technologies DCDT revealed that it plans to introduce new rules under the Electronic Communications Act, which governs sectors like telecommunications and broadcasting. One of the key obstacles for companies like Starlink has been South Africa's requirement for applicants to hold at least 30 ownership by historically disadvantaged groups, a provision designed to boost local economic empowerment.

While Starlink has yet to formally apply for a licence in South Africa, it has engaged in multiple discussions with the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa Icasa and has launched services in several neighbouring African countries, including Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Mozambique. Despite this regional success, Starlink has not been able to roll out its services in South Africa, largely due to the Black Economic Empowerment BEE requirements tied to licensing.

The 30 BEE ownership rule is viewed as one of the primary hurdles, though Starlink has not publicly confirmed this as a reason for their delay in applying for a licence. In response to this challenge, DCDT Minister Solly Malatsi announced plans in October to amend the BEE rules. Rather than removing the requirement entirely, Malatsi proposed introducing an 'equity equivalence' system, which would allow companies to contribute to South Africa's socio-economic development in other ways, such as through donations or initiatives aimed at benefiting underserved communities.