South Africa Advances National Satellite Programme to Bridge Digital Divide and Boost Sovereignty
In a significant step toward technological self-reliance, South Africa is pushing forward with its National Satellite Communication (SATCOM) Strategy, a collaborative effort between the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) and the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI). The initiative, developed alongside key stakeholders like Sentech and the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), aims to reduce the country’s dependence on foreign satellite systems while expanding connectivity to underserved regions.
This report is based on a high-level joint meeting of the Parliament’s Portfolio Committees on Communications and Digital Technologies, and on Science, Technology and Innovation, held on April 1, 2025. The meeting was co-chaired by Ms Khusela Lwandlekazi Sangoni, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies, and Ms Tsakani Goodness Shiviti, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation in the National Assembly. The session was attended by Mr Mondli Gungubele, Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, and Ms Nomalungelo Gina, Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, along with senior officials from the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT), the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), Sentech, and other key institutions.
A Strategy for Digital Inclusion and Security
The SATCOM strategy complements South Africa’s existing SA Connect broadband policy by leveraging space-based communication networks. Unlike terrestrial infrastructure, satellites can provide nationwide coverage, particularly benefiting rural and remote areas where traditional connectivity solutions are economically unviable. The project is expected to enhance service delivery in education, healthcare, and government operations while stimulating economic growth through new industries and job creation.
One of the primary motivations behind the strategy is national security. Currently, South Africa relies entirely on foreign-owned satellites, leaving it vulnerable to external disruptions. Deputy Minister Mondli Gungubele of the DCDT emphasised this risk, stating, “A country cannot have self-respect if it cannot organise itself to ensure it has its equipment.” The push for a locally owned satellite system aligns with broader efforts to safeguard digital sovereignty.
Progress and Partnerships
Since its inception, the SATCOM strategy has undergone extensive stakeholder consultations, including engagements with SANSA, Sentech, and international partners. Key milestones include approvals from the Director-General Cluster for Economic Sectors and the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster, paving the way for Cabinet submission in May 2025.
Funding remains a critical consideration, with four models under evaluation:
- Full government funding through the National Treasury.
- Public-private partnerships (PPPs) involving BRICS nations and local investors. The strategy proposes the establishment of a dedicated satellite company, SATCO, to serve as the implementing agency responsible for coordinating all government satellite communication requirements. SATCO would be positioned to secure investment from the South African government, strategic anchor investors from BRICS member states, and local private sector players.
- Debt financing via institutions like the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).
- A hybrid approach blending these options.
While fiscal constraints pose challenges, proponents argue that the long-term benefits – including reduced annual expenditures on foreign satellite leases (estimated at ZAR 1 billion) and increased local industry participation – justify the investment.
Challenges and Concerns
Despite progress, the programme faces several hurdles. Corruption risks, particularly in procurement, have raised alarms among lawmakers, who cite past failures in state-owned enterprises like Eskom. Additionally, the lack of gender diversity in leadership roles has drawn criticism, with calls for more inclusive representation in the sector.
Another pressing issue is technological lag. While Botswana recently launched its BOTSAT-1 satellite (although a satellite of a much lower magnitude), South Africa’s efforts have been delayed, prompting frustration among policymakers. Ms Natasha Mazzone of the Democratic Alliance (DA) noted, “It’s disappointing to see international satellites in space while South Africa, with its brilliant scientists, still depends on foreign systems.”
Next Steps and Future Vision
The immediate focus is securing Cabinet approval and initiating a 30-day public consultation to refine the strategy. A national workshop will follow to incorporate feedback and finalise feasibility studies. If approved, the plan envisions:
- Short-term solutions, such as leasing satellite capacity or shared ownership models, to expedite connectivity.
- Finalising the business case (2025)
- Securing orbital slots and necessary partnerships needed to actualise the plan (2026–2027).
- Long-term goals include launching a fully South African-owned satellite within seven years.
The strategy also emphasises skills development, with plans to engage universities and youth training programmes to cultivate local expertise in satellite technology.
Broader Implications for Africa
Beyond national benefits, the SATCOM programme positions South Africa as a leader in Africa’s space economy. Collaborations with the African Space Agency and other regional partners aim to promote continental innovation while reducing reliance on non-African technology providers.
Conclusion: A Race Against Time
“If you think connectivity is costly, analyse the cost of not having it,” Deputy Minister Gungubele remarked – a reminder of the stakes of its plans to strengthen communication infrastructure in support of inclusive economic growth.
As geopolitical tensions and technological advancements accelerate, South Africa’s satellite programme represents both an opportunity and a necessity. The strategy’s success hinges on swift implementation, transparent governance, and sustained investment. With strong political backing and a clear roadmap, South Africa has the potential to reclaim its position as a leader in African space technology – but only if it acts decisively.