South Africa Modifies Affirmative Action Rules for Starlink and Other Satellite Providers

South Africa has recently made a controversial decision to ease affirmative action regulations for satellite internet providers, including Elon Musk's Starlink. The communications minister's new policy allows foreign-owned companies to operate in the country without the previous requirement to sell 30% of their local equity to Black or other non-white owners. This move comes after Musk criticized the regulations as racist and restrictive.

The decision is seen as a significant departure from the country's previous affirmative action policies, which aimed to promote economic empowerment for historically disadvantaged groups. While some have lauded the change as a step towards a more open and competitive market, others have raised concerns about potential implications for local ownership and representation.

• The modified regulations have sparked a debate about the balance between promoting diversity and fostering foreign investment in South Africa's rapidly evolving telecommunications sector.
• Industry experts are closely monitoring the impact of this policy shift on competition, access to technology, and the broader socio-economic landscape of the country.