As South Africa explores the potential of satellite internet, telecom experts are cautioning that services like Starlink may do more harm than good for the country’s digital inclusivity, according to Tech Financials. Despite international acclaim, critics argue that satellite internet is costly, limited, and poorly suited to the realities of rural South African life.
Sean Shipalana, Director of Moropa Site Solutions and a consultant in rural telecommunications infrastructure, warns that enthusiasm for satellites could distract from scalable, accessible solutions. “Satellite internet is not for the rural poor. It’s for the wealthy, for luxury lodges, for niche use. We can’t build a connected nation on technology that excludes most people,” Shipalana said.
He points out that the hardware alone costs over $336, with monthly fees far beyond what most rural households can afford. The service also requires constant electricity and fixed installation, barriers in areas prone to load-shedding and lacking permanent infrastructure.
Moreover, Starlink lacks basic GSM or voice call capabilities without specialized equipment, an essential service in rural emergencies, Tech Financials reported.
“Satellite is being sold as a silver bullet, but in reality, it’s a luxury solution, not a national digital strategy,” Shipalana added.
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