SA Government Eyes Starlink Deal Despite No Discussion with Trump, Says Ramaphosa

Although Elon Musk’s satellite internet company, Starlink, didn’t come up in the private discussions between President Cyril Ramaphosa and former US President Donald Trump during their meeting in Washington, the South African government is still laying the groundwork to welcome the service.

In a recent media briefing, Ramaphosa clarified that while the Starlink issue was not discussed during their closed-door talks, the broader goal was to encourage foreign investment – including in the tech sector.

“What we want is to create a favourable environment for investors,” Ramaphosa said. “And yes, that includes companies like Starlink.”

Rupert’s Push for Tech in Crime Fighting

Interestingly, it was business magnate Johann Rupert who first mentioned Starlink during the open bilateral session with the media present. Rupert used the opportunity to highlight the need for advanced technology to combat South Africa’s high crime levels, stating that tools like Starlink could help connect every police station to real-time data and communication.

He also took a moment to challenge Trump’s controversial views on race and crime in South Africa, stressing that violence is a national issue, not limited to any race.

Government Offers Policy Flexibility for Starlink

Although talks between Starlink and the SA government had stalled earlier this year – reportedly over black economic empowerment (BEE) equity requirements – it now seems Pretoria is willing to revisit the regulatory landscape. The government is exploring “equity equivalent” models, similar to those used in other foreign investments, to create room for companies like Starlink to operate without being blocked by rigid ownership laws.

According to sources familiar with the discussions, the offer was made during an impromptu meeting between Elon Musk (or his representatives) and SA officials in Ramaphosa’s delegation.

Starlink: A Game-Changer for Connectivity

With over 4.6 million users worldwide, Starlink uses low-earth orbit satellites to deliver high-speed internet, especially in remote areas. Its expansion into African markets has been seen as a major opportunity to bridge the digital divide, especially in under-connected rural regions.

Musk, who was born in South Africa, has previously claimed that BEE laws effectively ban Starlink from operating in the country because he isn’t black. South African officials have denied this, but the government’s latest pivot signals a willingness to find middle ground.

Investment Over Ideology

Ultimately, Ramaphosa emphasized that the real goal of the US trip was to attract foreign direct investment, not get stuck in ideological debates.

“We’ve shown before that we can adapt regulatory frameworks to welcome investment. That’s the direction we’re heading,” he said.

So while Starlink didn’t get airtime with Trump, it’s very much on the radar back home – and the South African government seems keen to bring the stars within reach.

Black Business Council Pushes Back on BEE Law Exemption for Elon Musk’s Starlink

{Source: BusinessTech}

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