Elon Musk’s claim that Starlink is barred from South Africa due to his race has been rejected by South African officials. The telecom regulator confirmed that no application for a license has been filed by Starlink. The controversy highlights issues related to local equity ownership requirements for foreign companies operating in South Africa.
Elon Musk’s claim that Starlink is blocked in South Africa due to his race has been officially denied by South African authorities. The country’s telecommunications regulator stated that Starlink had not submitted an application for operational licensing, countering Musk’s assertion made on the platform X.
Clayson Monyela, a senior official, refuted Musk’s claims, emphasizing that the refusal was unrelated to skin color and tied to legal compliance. He remarked, “Starlink is welcome to operate in South Africa provided there’s compliance with local laws,” underscoring the importance of international investment principles.
Musk’s comments seemed directed at local regulations on Black Economic Empowerment, which require foreign telecom firms to transfer a portion of equity to historically disadvantaged groups. Reports indicate that SpaceX has requested the South African regulator, ICASA (Independent Communications Authority of South Africa), to reconsider this equity requirement for licensing.
ICASA officials confirmed that no license applications from Starlink or SpaceX had been received. Meanwhile, South African Communications Minister Solly Malatsi has reportedly asked for alternative compliance measures to facilitate SpaceX’s local entry, such as skills development initiatives. Starlink already operates in numerous African nations but faces similar licensing challenges in countries like Cameroon and Namibia.
In summary, Elon Musk’s assertion that Starlink is banned in South Africa due to his race has been categorically denied by South African authorities. The need for compliance with local regulations, particularly regarding ownership requirements, remains a hurdle for Starlink. The local government has shown willingness to explore alternative compliance options to promote international investment.
Original Source: www.staradvertiser.com
