Starlink has long been committed to providing reliable, high-speed internet access across South Africa, especially in rural areas where traditional connectivity falls short. Today, however, we are unable to apply for the licenses required to operate due to current ownership rules. That may soon change.
In May 2025, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) issued a draft Policy Directive proposing that companies like Starlink be allowed to meet local ownership requirements through Equity Equivalent Investment Programs (EEIPs). This model is already used in other industries and would allow Starlink to invest meaningfully in South Africa’s transformation goals without requiring local equity ownership.
To that end, we have committed to a R500 million investment that would connect 5,000 schools with free internet, and 2.4 million school children would benefit as a result. We have shared this commitment both directly with government leaders and also thousands of South Africans who have been waiting for service to become available. To make this possible, South Africa’s telecom regulations must be updated to appropriately align with the B-BBEE ICT Sector Code, to which the law already supports.
You can read our letters below, as well as information on how you can help support a more connected and inclusive future for South Africa.
Starlink’s Letter to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Competition
Starlink’s Letter to South Africans
Make your voice heard before the public consultation closes on July 2, 2025. Click below to open a ready-to-send email, which you can edit or send as is — simply sign your name at the bottom of the email to voice your support.
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