ANC keeps SA in digital darkness while Argentina becomes next country to get Starlink

31 March 2024

Argentina has become yet another country ahead of South Africa to fully embrace the 21st century and global connectivity to benefit its citizens. The country’s access to Space X’s Starlink internet connectivity was recently announced by South African born Elon Musk on X (formerly Twitter).

Argentina, a peer to South Africa in many aspects, will now have consistent access to the internet, across urban, rural, and remote communities, thanks to Starlink’s vast satellite network. They join countless other international countries, as well as our neighbouring African countries such as Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Malawi, and Mozambique.

Despite countries around the world lining up to gain access to Starlink, the ANC remains adamant on keeping South Africa in the stone age. While they tout the ‘Fourth Industrial Revolution’, like all they say, it is lip service. As opposed to truly accepting that the digital age is upon us, they just want control.

The reasons why the ANC continues to stifle nationwide access to the internet are simple. As opposed to putting South Africans first, they seek to ensure that ANC cadres get their slice of the pie through the BBEEE requirements which necessitate that 30% of all equity of the implementing corporation is transferred into their greedy hands. Refusal to transfer ownership will mean that no authorisation is given to operate in the country. They do not care that South Africans are doing all they can to lift themselves out of poverty, access jobs online, teach themselves skills and educate their children.

As our country continues to be left behind, the solution is clear – for South Africa to progress, the ANC must be removed from power. With the upcoming elections on May 29th, voting to oust the ANC signifies a commitment to providing access to jobs, educational platforms, and aligning our country with global connectivity. It's a pivotal step towards a brighter, digitally empowered future for all South Africans.

Issued by Natasha Mazzone, DA Shadow Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, 31 March 2024