SA's plans to launch a homegrown satellite

Updated April 4, 2025, 8:12 a.m. | By East Coast Breakfast / Skyye Ndlovu

South Africa is reaching for the stars – literally! The government is planning to launch its own satellite, bringing better internet, lower data costs, and digital independence.

Satellite in space — 3DSculptor / iStock

South Africa has set its sights on the stars.

In an ambitious move that could transform the country’s digital landscape, the government is planning to launch its own geostationary satellite within the next five to seven years.

This isn’t just about making history; it’s a game-changing step towards better connectivity, lower data costs, and reduced dependence on foreign communication services.

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Why does South Africa need its own satellite?

Internet access isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. It fuels education, healthcare, agriculture, banking, and even job creation.

Studies have shown that improving internet access can directly boost employment and economic growth.

However, in South Africa, rural and remote areas remain disconnected because traditional infrastructure is too expensive to roll out.

That’s where a homegrown satellite comes in. By launching its own communication satellite, South Africa can:

Expand internet access to underserved communities

Lower the cost of data and communication

Support critical services like e-learning and telemedicine

Strengthen the country’s digital independence

How will it work?

Tinyiko Ngobeni, deputy director-general of communications, outlined that the government is exploring three models for acquiring satellite capacity:

Leasing: Renting capacity from an existing satellite provider for rapid implementation.
Joint venture: Partnering with a private company to gain partial control.
Full ownership: Building and operating a national satellite, which is the preferred option.

Major telecom companies are already lining up to use the satellite’s capacity, proving just how valuable this project could be for South Africa’s tech and business sectors.

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Currently, South Africa spends around R100 billion a year on foreign communication services.

In comparison, a locally owned satellite would cost approximately R6 billion to launch but could last up to 20 years, making it a massive long-term saving.

Beyond economic benefits, a national satellite would also strengthen South Africa’s sovereignty, ensuring the country has full control over its own communication infrastructure, a key priority for national security.

So, what's next?

Well, the strategy is set to be submitted to Cabinet for approval, followed by a public consultation process. A national workshop will also be held to fine-tune the details and fast-track development.

This project isn’t just about launching a satellite, it’s about launching South Africa into a new era of digital independence.

If it's a success, it could be a major win for economic growth, job creation, and tech innovation.