Elon Musk’s claim that Starlink is barred from operating in South Africa due to his race has been denied by South African officials. The telecom regulator stated that Starlink has not applied for the necessary licenses. The comments were aimed at the nation’s Black Economic Empowerment laws, which require foreign telecom companies to share ownership with historically disadvantaged groups.
South Africa has refuted Elon Musk’s assertion that his Starlink satellite service is prohibited in the nation due to his race. According to the country’s telecom regulator, Starlink has not submitted any application for a license. Musk’s provocative statement was made via X, the platform he owns, where he claimed, “Starlink is not allowed to operate in South Africa, because I’m not black.”
Clayson Monyela, a senior official in South Africa’s foreign affairs department, responded directly to Musk on social media, stating, “Sir, that’s NOT true & you know it! It’s got nothing to do with your skin color.” He emphasized that Starlink is free to operate if it complies with local regulations.
Musk’s comments seem to reference South Africa’s Black Economic Empowerment rules, which require that telecommunications licensees, particularly foreign entities, cede 30% ownership to historically disadvantaged groups. Reports indicate that SpaceX has lobbied regulators to reconsider this requirement for licenses.
An official from the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) noted that there has been no application from Starlink. Communications Minister Solly Malatsi has not publicly commented on the matter but has suggested considering alternative ownership arrangements for foreign companies to facilitate their local operations.
While Starlink has successfully established its presence in many African nations, it has encountered challenges in South Africa, as well as in Cameroon and Namibia, primarily related to licensing issues. Musk’s ties to South Africa include his education in Pretoria before moving to the United States, where he became a notable figure in business and politics.
In summary, South Africa has firmly rejected Elon Musk’s claim that Starlink’s operational limitations are racially motivated. The country’s regulatory body has indicated that Starlink has not even applied for any required licenses. Musk’s comments appear to challenge established local policies regarding economic empowerment, while South Africa welcomes foreign investment if it aligns with its laws. The ongoing discussions may affect the future operational landscape for Starlink in the country and beyond.
Original Source: www.staradvertiser.com
