South Africa’s communications regulator, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), has warned that the use or provision of Starlink’s satellite Internet services in the country is illegal.

Space company, Starlink, founded by Elon Musk still remains illegal in his home country, and the regulator, ICASA, has warned against importation and sale of Starlink equipment, with a hefty fine up to R5 million (US$269,600) for anyone that buys the device.

However, Starlink has had a much easier path in several African countries that have already launched its satellite Internet service, including Benin, Nigeria, Rwanda, Malawi, Kenya, Mozambique, and Zambia. South Africa, however, has made it clear that Starlink is not welcome in the country without a license.

One of the challenges Starlink faces in South Africa is a local investment and licensing law that requires at least 30% local ownership, and rules around equity ownership by South African citizens and historically disadvantaged people. 

In addition, the South Africa’s Electronic Communications Act (ECA) states that, ICASA can only accept and consider applications for Individual Electronic Communications Network Services (I-ECNS) licenses following a policy directive from the Minister. Without this directive, ICASA cannot process applications for I-ECNS or I-ECS licenses. Additionally, Starlink would need to comply with equity ownership rules for South African citizens and historically disadvantaged people to apply for an I-ECNS license.

It is unclear whether Starlink will be able to overcome these hurdles and obtain a license to operate in South Africa. However, the company has expressed interest in the South African market and may continue to pursue opportunities there.