South Africa Considers Partnership with China for Satellite Internet to Expand Rural Connectivity
In a move to close the country’s widening digital divide, South Africa is in talks with China Satellite Network Company (CSNC) to bring affordable satellite internet to millions of residents in remote and underserved areas.
The potential partnership, currently being explored by Communications Minister Solly Malatsi, aims to provide last-mile connectivity solutions that could transform rural broadband access across South Africa.
Chinese LEO Satellites Launched Successfully as South Africa Seeks Connectivity Solutions
The discussions between South Africa and China come shortly after a successful Long March 8A rocket launch, which placed a low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation—Internet low-orbit group 06 satellites—into space.
The mission, launched from the Hainan Commercial Space Launch Site, was notable for several technological innovations, including:
- Full-process automation
- Active drift control during takeoff
- Supercooled liquid oxygen refuelling
This mission was the 586th successful flight of the Long March rocket series, solidifying China’s leadership in commercial space tech.
Minister Malatsi Engages Chinese State-Owned CSNC
During his recent visit to China, Minister Solly Malatsi held strategic talks with CSNC, the state-owned enterprise developing a Starlink competitor via its LEO satellite internet constellation. The aim: to explore how CSNC’s infrastructure could be used to expand digital inclusion and bypass regulatory bottlenecks that have delayed the launch of other services such as Starlink in South Africa.
“This partnership could help us bridge the connectivity gap for millions of South Africans who still lack basic access to the internet,” said a senior official in the Ministry.
Starlink Still Absent in South Africa Due to Licensing Rules
Unlike 21 other African countries where Starlink is operational, South Africa’s licensing regulations require foreign providers to partner with local firms. This has created delays and legal complexity, making Chinese alternatives like CSNC more appealing to local policymakers.
Beyond Internet Access: Broader Tech Collaboration with China
Minister Malatsi’s trip also included high-level meetings with Huawei and Honour, where discussions focused on expanding access to smart devices across South Africa.
The Minister also attended the 2025 World AI Conference in Shanghai, signalling South Africa’s growing commitment to AI-driven innovation and international technology partnerships.
National Priority: Universal Digital Access
This move aligns with South Africa’s national digital transformation strategy, which places a premium on equitable access to digital services, AI readiness, and technology-enabled education.
The government hopes that through satellite internet partnerships, more South Africans will be able to participate in the digital economy, access online healthcare, and benefit from remote learning platforms.
