The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) is facing challenges in stopping unauthorised Starlink services in the country, despite declaring the satellite internet provider illegal.
Starlink Operating Without Approval
ICASA Chairperson Mothibi Ramusi confirmed that Starlink, owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has been operating unlawfully in South Africa. Authorities recently confiscated equipment from ICASAsePush, a company in the Eastern Cape that was distributing Starlink technology.
Ramusi stated: “Starlink has been operating illegally in SA. We have recently confiscated equipment belonging to SpaceX from a company called ICASAsePush.”
Thousands of Illegal Starlink Kits in Circulation
Although ICASA has not released 2025 data, estimates from November 2023 suggest:
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Over 14,000 Starlink kits are imported into South Africa annually.
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Companies like ICASAsePush and StarSat Africa facilitate access by operating from neighboring countries (e.g., Mozambique, where Starlink is licensed).
