SpaceX now available in 6 African countries, leaving South Africa in the dark

Starlink announced the availability of its satellite internet service in Kenya.

1. Starlink is now available in 6 African countries – Kenya, Nigeria, Mozambique, Rwanda, Reunion and Mayotte.
2. South Africa is still not listed as a launch market for Starlink and the deployment date is listed as “unknown”.
3. Icasa says Starlink has not applied for any of the licenses it needs to operate in South Africa.
4. The DA blamed the ANC’s empowerment requirements for Starlink’s apparent lack of interest in South Africa.
5. The Electronic Communications Act requires at least 30% equity ownership by previously disadvantaged groups.
6. Communications Minister Mondli Gungubele denied that government is blocking Starlink’s operation in South Africa.
7. Starlink has not launched officially in South Africa yet but is available in other African countries.