South Africa Clears Path for Starlink Launch With Revised Equity Rules

South Africa’s communications sector shifts toward pragmatic tech investment frameworks. Minister Solly Malatsi’s policy revision, backed by 19,000 public submissions, replaces rigid ownership mandates with flexible development alternatives. The MOVE resolves Starlink’s years-long impasse with regulators over 30% Black equity requirements.

Multinationals may now opt for equity-equivalent investments—either 30% of local operations’ value or 4% of annual revenue. This aligns South Africa’s digital infrastructure goals with global corporate structures. Elon Musk’s satellite venture, previously frozen by compliance disputes, gains a viable entry path without compromising its no-equity-sales stance.

The policy’s 90% public approval rate counters claims of preferential treatment. It signals Africa’s largest industrialized economy prioritizing connectivity over ideological constraints, potentially accelerating regional blockchain and crypto infrastructure development.