South Africa Contemplates satellite internet agreement with Chinese Low Earth Orbit (LEO) service provider
In an effort to close South Africa's digital divide, particularly in rural and underserved areas, the Communications Ministry is currently in active talks with China Satellite Network Company (CSNC), a state-owned Chinese firm developing a large low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation.
The discussions, which took place during a recent visit by Communications Minister Solly Malatsi to China, focus on using CSNC's broadband solutions to address the country's last-mile connectivity challenges. The partnership aims to provide affordable broadband access where mobile data is either too costly or internet access is nonexistent.
CSNC's proposed satellite network, with nearly 13,000 LEO satellites orbiting close to Earth, can offer faster speeds and lower latency than traditional satellites. This would support critical activities such as virtual learning, telehealth consultations, and enabling small businesses in remote communities.
The potential partnership comes partly as a result of regulatory delays preventing SpaceX's Starlink from launching in South Africa. The Communications Ministry sees CSNC's satellite broadband as a promising alternative to bridge the rural digital divide and improve nationwide connectivity.
The success of the recent launch of satellite Internet low-orbit group 06 satellites by CSNC indicates progress in this direction. The launch, which occurred at the Hainan Commercial Space Launch Site, marked a significant step in space technology advancements. The mission included several technological innovations such as full-process automation, active drift control during takeoff, and supercooled liquid oxygen refueling.
Minister Malatsi's visit to China also included meetings with Huawei and Honor to discuss making smart devices more accessible. This broader vision for South Africa's role in global technology and innovation was further signified by the Minister's attendance at the 2025 World AI Conference in Shanghai.
The South African government is open to alternative suppliers, including Chinese firms, to bypass local telecom licensing rules that require foreign providers to partner with local stakeholders. This openness, combined with the innovative technology offered by CSNC, promises a potential partnership that could help close South Africa's digital divide by providing affordable, reliable internet access to millions in remote and underserved areas.
Scientists in the field of space-and-astronomy eagerly observe CSNC's progress as the technology they use for satellite broadcast could significantly aid South Africa's digital divide mission. The proposed satellite network, with nearly 13,000 low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, could provide broadband solutions for last-mile connectivity challenges, supporting activities like virtual learning and telehealth consultations.
The success of CSNC's recent launch of low-orbit group 06 satellites testifies to advancements in satellite technology, showcasing innovations such as full-process automation, active drift control during takeoff, and supercooled liquid oxygen refueling.
With their openness to alternative suppliers and the potential for affordable, reliable internet access via satellite technology, South Africa stands on the brink of a revolution in communication and innovation, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
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