- Starlink services launch in Botswana
- Licensing issues and resolution
- Starlink in South Africa: challenges and prospects
Elon Musk's Starlink has launched its satellite internet services in Botswana, making it the 11th African country to benefit from high-speed internet by Starlink. This marks the fastest-growing internet service globally, now available in over 101 countries.
Starlink services launch in Botswana
The hardware will cost P4,820 ($363), shipping for P314 ($24), and P688 ($52) for the monthly subscription. The launch in Botswana follows a decision by the country's telecommunications regulator in May to grant Starlink a license to operate, after initially imposing a three-month ban and warning of potential legal repercussions.
Licensing issues and resolution
On February 2, 2024, the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) rejected Starlink's application to operate in Botswana due to the company's failure to meet all requirements. In a statement, BOCRA emphasized that Starlink had not authorized any entity to import or resell its Internet kits in Botswana. Offenders would be committing an offence, although specific charges were not disclosed.
Starlink in South Africa: challenges and prospects
South Africa remains one of the few countries globally without an estimated service date for Starlink. Reports in April indicated that Starlink won't operate in South Africa as the company refused to comply with the country's BEE (Black Economic Empowerment) requirement to gift 30% ownership to local historically disadvantaged people. Moreover, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) and the Ministry of Communications have not issued new licenses in about 13 years. Despite this, Starlink's roaming service has been operational in South Africa since early 2023.
The introduction of Starlink services in Botswana marks a significant step in the development of internet infrastructure in Africa. However, ongoing licensing challenges in South Africa highlight the complexities of integrating global technologies into local regulatory environments.
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