South African telecoms regulator warns that Starlink lacks the required license to operate.

Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), the South African telecoms regulator, has issued a statement that Elon Musk’s Starlink does not hold any licence to operate in the country.

It seems that the regulator is reacting to some reports that Starlink service is available in the country using a global or regional roaming subscription. Some other reports state that some local internet service providers are offering the service from Mozambique.

According to the regulator in a government gazette, ICASA said that:

“The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (“the Authority”) has noted recent developments on the alleged provision of satellite internet services through Starlink terminals in South Africa, and of some entities distributing Starlink products in South Africa from within the country and from the neighbouring countries.”

“The Authority has indicated previously, through numerous media engagements, that Starlink does not hold any licence issued by the Authority to provide electronic communications, electronic communications network or broadcasting services in South Africa.”

It is still a surprise that Starlink is not operational in one of the internet savvy countries in Africa. Starlink is already operating officially in many countries across the world, including four in Africa. In July this year, ICASA confirmed that Starlink, a satellite internet provider owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, had not applied for the necessary licenses to operate in South Africa.

ICASA says that:

“The Authority recognises the importance of the provision of broadband services in South Africa. Access to Broadband connectivity is of utmost importance and the Authority’s mandate is to ensure that all South Africans have access to a wide range of basic communication services at affordable prices. Access to these services is fundamental to drive, amongst others, the following: economic growth, education, rural development and job creation, especially for the under-serviced areas in South Africa.”

“The Authority encourages any interested person who wishes to provide broadband services, within the borders of South Africa, to adhere to and follow the licensing requirements as set out in the legislative and regulatory framework, to ensure that services are provided efficiently, fairly and in the best interest of stakeholders in the ICT sector, including consumers and licensees.”

“The Authority is thus available to provide any clarity regarding the relevant process to follow when applying for an individual electronic communications service or electronic communications network service licence.”

No official statement has been received by Starlink on the progress of its application to operate in South Africa.