Starlink Users In South Africa Face Service Termination Over Violations

Starlink has issued a warning via email to its South African users saying that their internet access would cease on April 30.

The email stated that the decision was due to violations of its terms and conditions, underscoring that using Starlink kits beyond designated areas, as indicated on the Starlink Availability Map, contravenes their terms. After the termination, users will only be able to access their Starlink account for updates.

The company, a venture under Elon Musk’s SpaceX, offers high-speed internet globally, but is yet to secure a license to operate in South Africa from the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa).

The requirements of Icasa mandate any applicant to have 30% ownership from historically disadvantaged groups to be eligible for licensing. However, many in South Africa resorted to creative methods to access Starlink services, including purchasing roaming packages from countries where Starlink is licensed.

Last November Icasa clarified that using Starlinks in this manner is illegal.

In its recent email to users, it stated that ‘Mobile – Regional’ plans are meant for temporary travel and transit, not permanent use in a location, adding that continuous use of these plans outside the country where service was ordered will result in service restriction.

For those interested in making its services available in their region, Starlink advised contacting local authorities.

Melissa Enoch

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