SpaceX has told Icasa that it ought to rethink the rules requiring 30% shareholding by “historically disadvantaged” groups.
will participate in public hearings called by communications regulator Icasa next month, the surest sign yet of the company’s intention to launch its satellite internet services in South Africa.
If Icasa persists in this requirement … it will have the effect of excluding international investment “Under the current South African regulatory system, companies providing services directly to end users must hold I-ECNS and I-ECS licences, which require at least 30% shareholding by historically disadvantaged groups,” SpaceX wrote in its submission to Icasa.“Many foreign satellite operators, particularly those with direct-to-consumer business models, have global policies that prevent local shareholding, thus excluding them from the South African market.
“The SpaceX/Starlink track record in other African countries speaks for itself, and it and other multinational satellite operators could make a meaningful contribution to digital transformation and achieving the SA Connect broadband targets, while also making a significant contribution to black economic empowerment.” SA Connect is the South African government’s programme to expand broadband coverage in underserviced areas.
“Inward investment, for example by satellite operators such as Starlink, will require some rethinking by Icasa in relation to its empowerment requirements, which are otherwise out of step with national policy and, in particular, the ICT sector code.”
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
StarSat Still Fighting for South African Relaunch After Icasa ShutdownStarSat, a satellite TV operator and competitor to DStv, is continuing its efforts to relaunch services in South Africa after the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) shut down its operations in October 2024. The broadcaster refused to comply with Icasa's order to cease operations, claiming it had not been given a fair opportunity to address the issue of its expired broadcasting licence. Despite restoring signal to other African countries, StarSat faces an uphill battle in South Africa as it seeks to overturn the Icasa shutdown.
Read more »
Icasa Approves Transfer of Cell C's Licenses to Blue Label TelecomsThe Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) has approved the transfer of ownership control of Cell C's spectrum, network, and operating licenses to Blue Label Telecoms. Cell C will retain ownership of the licenses and continue to operate, marking the final step in Blue Label's acquisition of the mobile operator. The transfer was initially applied for in late 2023 to comply with regulations and address concerns raised by existing shareholders, particularly CellSAf, who were not consulted before the application.
Read more »
Blue Label Secures Icasa Approval to Take Control of Cell CBlue Label Telecoms shares have surged 71% in the past year, fueled by anticipation of a Cell C turnaround. Icasa has officially approved the transfer of Cell C's spectrum and network licenses to Blue Label, marking a significant step towards Blue Label assuming full control of the mobile operator. While Cell C will retain its licenses and continue providing services, Blue Label's 49.5% stake is poised to solidify its dominance. This move follows a series of recapitalizations by Blue Label aimed at rescuing Cell C from financial distress.
Read more »
Musk Seeks Deal With South African Government to Expand StarlinkElon Musk is seeking to expand Starlink's operations in South Africa, proposing investments in battery production and other areas in exchange for relaxation of local Black ownership requirements.
Read more »
‘BB Mzansi’: Contestants Ashley Ogle and Bonnie Bee Receive 1 Strike From Big BrotherMzansi isn't happy with the punishment Big Brother gave Ashley Ogle and Bonnie Bee. The ladies were served with a strike each for their behaviour on the show.
Read more »
Starlink to Beta Test Direct-to-Mobile Service, Potentially Disrupting Global TelecomsStarlink, a satellite broadband internet service provider, will begin beta testing its groundbreaking direct-to-mobile service on Monday. This technology, enabling satellite connectivity to act like cellular towers in space, could revolutionize global telecommunications by providing internet and phone access even in the most remote areas.
Read more »