South Africa's Bid to Welcome Starlink Faces Controversy Over Ownership Rules

The South African government plans to revise laws regarding Black ownership to allow Elon Musk's Starlink to operate. This has sparked backlash from critics who argue it undermines efforts to address historical injustices.

In a bid to accommodate Elon Musk's ambitions for his satellite internet service, Starlink, a significant policy shift is underway in South Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa has been encouraging Musk to invest in his home country, yet tensions have escalated over accusations directed at the government by Musk, labeling its Black ownership rules as discriminatory.

Musk contends that the law requiring foreign businesses to share ownership with Black individuals—a measure aimed at rectifying inequalities rooted in apartheid—is a barrier to his company’s operations. To address this, telecommunications official Solly Malatsi is working on a new directive that would allow satellite internet companies to secure operating licenses by committing investments to disadvantaged communities rather than adhering strictly to Black ownership mandates.

This proposed change, however, isn't without its critics. Some South African political factions argue that easing ownership requirements could dilute ongoing efforts to rectify the racial inequalities entrenched during apartheid. Critics accuse Malatsi of potentially prioritizing Musk's business interests over the historical and social justice commitments within the nation.

While the directive could pave the way for Starlink and similar companies to enter the South African market, it must first undergo a public consultation process with the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa, which oversees telecommunications regulation in the country. As the conversation unfolds, the balance between attracting foreign investment and addressing historical racial disparities remains a contentious issue in South Africa.