…Researched and contributed by Larry John.
The Democratic Alliance (DA), a political party in South Africa, has accused the government of blocking Elon Musk’s Starlink company from operating in the country.
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation operated by SpaceX, providing satellite internet access to over 50 countries.
The DA claims that in order for Starlink to operate in South Africa, the government requires a minimum of 30% equity ownership held by persons from historically disadvantaged groups.
DA Shadow Minister of Communications Dianne Kohler Barnard called the government’s demand “laughable,” arguing that an international multibillion-dollar company should not have to hand over a significant portion of its equity to operate in South Africa.
Barnard also stated that South Africa appears set to become one of the only African countries to not roll out Starlink.
According to the DA, at least 20 African countries have either rolled out or are set to get Starlink in the near future, including South Africa’s neighbors, Mozambique and Botswana.
The party believes that if Starlink were available in South Africa, it would greatly benefit citizens, particularly those in rural areas who would gain access to information and learning materials.
Additionally, people would be able to educate themselves beyond the constraints of formal universities or schools, and the government would have the opportunity to set up free online educational portals to give everyone a fighting chance of escaping the high levels of unemployment.
Commentary:
The DA’s accusations against the South African government of blocking Starlink highlight the challenges facing the country in terms of connectivity and access to information.
The demand that 30% equity ownership be held by historically disadvantaged groups may be seen as an attempt to address inequality, but it may also be viewed as a barrier to foreign investment and technological development.
The party’s argument that Starlink could provide significant benefits to South Africans is compelling, particularly given the country’s high levels of poverty and unemployment.
It remains to be seen whether the government will reconsider its position on Starlink and whether it will seek to strike a balance between equity and the benefits of foreign investment.