Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has issued a stern directive to Elon Musk’s Starlink, demanding full compliance with South Africa’s Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) laws if the satellite internet service intends to operate in the country.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, Malema emphasized that foreign companies must adhere to South Africa’s economic transformation policies if they wish to access its market.
“South Africa’s resources and markets belong to all our people. No foreign entity, no matter how advanced, will be allowed to operate here unless it respects our laws and commits to empowering historically disadvantaged South Africans,” Malema stated.
The BEE Act, a cornerstone of post-apartheid economic reform, requires companies to include Black South Africans in ownership, management, and skills development. Malema’s comments come amid growing speculation about Starlink’s potential launch in South Africa, which could significantly improve internet access—particularly in rural and underserved areas.
While acknowledging the benefits of Starlink’s technology, Malema insisted that innovation must not bypass economic justice.
“We welcome technological progress, but progress without empowerment is just another form of exploitation,” he said. “If Starlink wants to operate here, it must form meaningful partnerships, create jobs, and ensure skills transfer that uplifts our people. Anything less is unacceptable.”
The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies has supported this stance, confirming that all operators, including Starlink, must meet regulatory requirements before entering the market.
Policy analysts say Malema’s position aligns with the government’s push to ensure foreign investment contributes to economic transformation.
“South Africa’s regulations are designed to ensure that technological advancements benefit the broader society, not just foreign corporations,” said Dr. Nandi Dlamini, a telecommunications expert.
Starlink has yet to publicly respond to the EFF’s demands or clarify its BEE compliance strategy. While its services could revolutionize internet connectivity in South Africa, the company must first navigate the country’s legal and political landscape.
The debate highlights a critical challenge: balancing global technological innovation with local socio-economic development. For now, Starlink’s future in South Africa depends not only on its technical capabilities but also on its willingness to align with the country’s empowerment agenda.
