“Starlink should be in South Africa only if it plays by our rules” — Youth ICT Council President
- The announcement of a policy amendment allowing EEIPs as an alternative to B-BBEE ownership requirements.
- The timing of the policy update coinciding with President Ramaphosa's meeting with President Trump, raising suspicions of diplomatic influence.
- Concerns from industry experts about the potential benefits to foreign companies like Starlink at the expense of local businesses.
The proposed amendments to South Africa's ICT regulations raise significant concerns about the prioritization of foreign corporate interests over local economic empowerment. If these changes are not carefully scrutinized and regulated, they could undermine years of progress in promoting local ownership and transformation, ultimately harming the competitive landscape for South African businesses.
