Elon Musk reveals why Starlink isn’t accepted in South Africa
Elon Musk has once again stirred controversy over why his satellite internet company, Starlink, has not been allowed to operate in South Africa.
On Thursday, Musk tweeted, “Starlink is not allowed to have an Internet provider license in South Africa for the sole reason that I am not Black,” adding, “This is not ok.”
The comment was shared alongside an excerpt from his 2025 interview at the Qatar Economic Forum, where he made similar claims.
In that interview, he said, “There are 140 laws in South Africa that basically give strong preference to if you are a black South African and not otherwise. Starlink is not allowed to operate in South Africa, because I’m not black.”
Musk also made a broader point about South African laws on his X account, stating, “South Africa now has more anti-White laws than there were anti-Black laws under Apartheid!”
He clarified his position by saying, “I am extremely opposed to anti-Black laws, but equally opposed to the laws against White people or other races too. There should be a fair and even playing field.”
Born in Pretoria during the apartheid era, Musk’s comments have drawn attention and debate, though South African authorities have challenged his framing.
According to reports from local regulators, Starlink has not submitted an application for an internet provider licence, and the company is free to operate provided it complies with local laws.
Starlink is not allowed to have an Internet provider license in South Africa for the sole reason that I am not Black.
This is not ok.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 8, 2026
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