Elon Musk criticized the South African government by arguing that Starlink is not permitted to operate in South Africa because he is “not black.” The statement, posted on his social media platform X, sparked new debate on business regulations and racial policy in South Africa.
“Stalllink is not permitted to operate in South Africa because I'm not black,” he said, replied to a post that South African entrepreneur Robert Hersov claims to have “140 race-based laws in South Africa, all anti-white.”
The billionaire also responded with “yes” in another post. This argued that “the South African government argued that Elon's “non-provocative” view was a key factor in its decision to prevent Starlink from operating within the country.”
In South Africa, businesses must have at least 30% of ownership or economic involvement owned by Black South Africa.
The rules are part of a broad Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) policy that seeks to correct past economic inequality in the apartheid era by encouraging economic involvement among underprivileged groups.
What is a broad black economy empowerment (BBBEE) policy?
A broad Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) policy was implemented to address economic inequality stemming from the apartheid era by encouraging black ownership in strategic industries. While some have argued it promotes economic inclusion, critics, including South African-born Musk, argue it will block foreign investment and hamper technological advances.
There is an ongoing debate over Starlink's business in South Africa. On August 14, 2023, the South African government officially banned the import of Starlink kits, preventing citizens from accessing satellite internet services.
Starlink operates in 17 African countries, including neighboring Namibia, Mozambique and Botswana.
Musk's latest comments followed his recent criticism of South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa, who described the country's land ownership law as “racist.”
