by AKANI CHAUKE
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – SOUTH Africa’s pursuit of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites is gaining momentum as policymakers and scientists seek to bridge the digital divide while safeguarding national interests and scientific assets.
Speaking at the Africa Telecoms Executive Roundtable 2026, hosted by CAJ News Africa and CAJ Global, Selaelo Matlhane outlined why the country cannot ignore the rapid expansion of LEO satellite technology.
Matlhane, Spectrum and Telecoms Manager at the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), acknowledged both the necessity and complexity of adopting LEO satellites.
“There is a need for low Earth orbit satellites,” he said, pointing to their critical role in extending connectivity to underserved and remote regions.
The primary driver behind South Africa’s interest in LEO satellites is their ability to deliver broadband coverage in areas where terrestrial infrastructure is limited or non-existent.
Unlike traditional networks, LEO satellites orbit closer to Earth, enabling faster, lower-latency communication.
This makes them particularly effective in rural landscapes, aligning with national goals of digital inclusion and economic participation.
Matlhane highlighted how satellite technology could reshape connectivity across the Southern African region.
Drawing comparisons with existing satellite mobility frameworks, he noted: “You can travel with a mobile satellite dish across SADC countries without needing permission, as long as it is authorised by one member.”
He suggested that similar principles could apply to future mobile connectivity, where “a cellular device authorised in one country could operate across borders using direct-to-satellite technology.”
Such advancements promise significant economic benefits.
LEO satellites can support sectors ranging from agriculture and education to healthcare and telecommunications, particularly in isolated communities.
They also open opportunities for local industry participation.
“Satellite operators rely on local companies within the country,” Matlhane explained. “Everything else is localised. We are building, not only renting.”
This emphasis on localisation is central to South Africa’s strategy.
By ensuring that ground infrastructure, operations and services are managed domestically, the country strengthens its technological sovereignty while creating jobs and fostering innovation.
According to Matlhane, operators that prioritise collaboration with local partners are more likely to succeed in the South African market.
However, the expansion of LEO satellites is not without challenges. South Africa hosts globally significant astronomy infrastructure, and satellite interference poses a serious risk.
“Satellites broadcast everywhere and damage the quietness that governments have protected for many years,” Matlhane cautioned.
He warned that powerful transmissions from satellites could overwhelm sensitive radio telescopes, which are designed to detect faint cosmic signals.
To address these concerns, South Africa is actively engaging in international forums such as the International Telecommunication Union and global space governance platforms to advocate for balanced solutions.
“We are trying to find coexistence between satellite operations and astronomy,” Matlhane said, stressing that scientific activities “support humanity” and must be preserved.
A key element of this coexistence is cooperation and transparency.
“Satellite operators and the astronomy community need to trust each other through the exchange of real-time information,” he noted. This includes sharing precise satellite and telescope locations to minimise interference.
Ultimately, South Africa’s approach reflects a pragmatic balance between embracing technological progress and protecting national assets.
While LEO satellites are seen as indispensable for connectivity and economic growth, their integration must be carefully managed.
As Matlhane concluded, the goal is clear: to “coexist and move forward in solidarity” while ensuring that innovation benefits the country without compromising its scientific legacy.
– CAJ News