Business
Elon Musk’s Starlink Hits a Wall in South Africa as Presidency Rejects Investment
Elon Musk’s ambitions to bring Starlink to South Africa have hit a major roadblock. The South African Presidency has made it clear that it will not accept investments from the billionaire due to his criticism of the Expropriation Act and his broader views on government policies.
Why Is Starlink Being Rejected in South Africa?
The South African government initially delayed Starlink’s entry due to the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) requirement. This law mandates that 30% of a company’s local stake be ceded to a historically disadvantaged group, including black South Africans, women, youth, and people with disabilities.
To ease restrictions, Minister of Communications Solly Malatsi announced plans to direct ICASA to implement equity programs, potentially opening the door for Starlink. However, a new conflict has emerged—this time, political rather than regulatory.
Elon Musk vs. the South African Government
Musk has openly criticized South Africa’s Expropriation Act, calling it a racist law that facilitates land seizures. He has also accused the government of suppressing information about white genocide, claims that the Presidency has dismissed as misinformation.
According to MyBroadband, the Presidency issued a strong statement rejecting Musk’s views and stating that it would not welcome investments from someone spreading unprogressive and divisive rhetoric.
Musk’s Rocky Relationship with South Africa
- In 2024, Musk met with President Cyril Ramaphosa in New York to discuss potential investments in South Africa.
- Ramaphosa initially encouraged Musk to invest in the country.
- However, tensions escalated when former U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to cut aid to South Africa after the Expropriation Act was signed into law.
- Ramaphosa reportedly called Musk to discuss his stance on the Act, but their relationship has since deteriorated.
Public Reactions to the Starlink Controversy
South Africans are divided over the Starlink issue. Many internet users expressed their opinions on MyBroadband’s X (formerly Twitter) page:
- Jarryd: “Fine, eventually the entire continent will have Starlink, and South Africa will be an embarrassment.”
- Oracle: “We don’t want Starlink. It’s too expensive. We are fine with Rain network.”
- Sithale: “We agree with the presidency.”
- Uppity African: “The best decision Cupcake could have taken. Starlink is expensive.”
- ThapeloM Moreski: “Best decision ever. Why act like this is the first time we hear about internet connections when we are above the global average?”
- Lassy Laden: “We stand with the Presidency during these difficult times.”
What’s Next for Starlink in South Africa?
With the Presidency taking a firm stance against Musk, it is uncertain whether Starlink will ever launch in South Africa. The service is already available in multiple African countries, and many South Africans may find ways to access it unofficially. However, for now, government support seems unlikely.
Would you like Starlink in South Africa?
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