Connect the Unconnected Across South Africa
Help South Africans gain access to Starlink’s high-speed internet
UPDATES ARE BEING CONSIDERED THAT WILL ALLOW STARLINK TO PROVIDE...
to every corner of South Africa
with free high speed starlink internet
would have access to internet
High-speed internet supports people and industries across the board, from logistics and manufacturing to public safety and emergency response. It helps businesses work more efficiently, shrinks the digital divide, and gives local communities a chance to grow on their own terms.
Unfortunately, more than 18 million people in South Africa lack access to high-speed internet.
Starlink is committed to providing reliable, high-speed internet access across the country, especially in rural areas where traditional connectivity falls short. However, we are currently unable to apply for the licenses required to operate due to current ownership rules. That may soon change.
In South Africa, the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Act is a government policy designed to advance economic participation and equity for historically disadvantaged groups. For nearly 20 years, Equity Equivalent Investment Programs have been legally recognized ways for global companies to meet B-BBEE requirements in South Africa – but not in telecommunications.
By aligning telecom regulations with the B-BBEE Act and recognizing Equity Equivalent Investment Programs, the government of South Africa will allow companies such as Starlink to contribution to the transformation goals of South Africa in proven and impactful ways. For instance, Starlink has committed to providing 5,000 rural schools with free service, connecting more than 2.4 million students a year with high-speed internet.
Importantly, Starlink is not seeking any type of special treatment, as these changes would apply to all current and future potential operators.
Connect 5,000 Rural Schools
With reliable internet, students can access high-quality educational resources, participate in remote learning, and build the digital skills they need to succeed in a modern economy.
We have committed to a R500 million investment that would connect 5,000 rural schools across South Africa with free internet, and 2.4 million school children would benefit as a result. To make this possible, South Africa’s telecom regulations must be updated to appropriately align with the B-BBEE ICT Sector Code, to which the law already supports.
But the impact extends far beyond the classroom. Connectivity fuels economic growth. It helps create jobs, improves public services, and makes it easier for businesses of all sizes to operate and grow.
Epic and Everyday Starlink Stories
We are proud of the impact Starlink is making in communities all around the world, and the Starlink team is doing everything possible to enhance service for existing customers and provide connectivity for even more people, especially in areas where few if any options for high-speed internet existed before.
Learn more about how people, businesses, and organizations are using Starlink in 24 countries across Africa and even more places all around the world today.
Read Stories