A week after a confirmation that SpaceX, owned by a well-known entrepreneur, was in discussions with the South African government regarding securing a license for a specific service, the two parties met once more at the ongoing UN General Assembly in New York.
After a closed-door meeting, President Ramaphosa described the encounter as positive, potentially hinting at the future availability of a low-earth orbit internet service, eagerly anticipated by the South African population.
Previously, there were mentions of awaiting approval for the service from the South African regulator. However, as of recent reports, no formal application had been submitted, prolonging the process of making the service accessible in the country.
Similar situations were observed in neighboring countries where stringent requirements delayed the licensing process. Yet, after engagements with the respective country’s leaders, the service was swiftly approved, launched, and made operational.
With challenges persisting in meeting the regulatory standards, the entrepreneur is seeking to navigate similar paths by engaging with the South African President to introduce the service to the country’s well-established economy.