[1 April 2025]
The Departments of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) briefed Parliament on the progress of the National Satellite Communication (SATCOM) Strategy on April 1, 2025.
National Satellite Communications (SATCOM) Strategy Progress Update
[27 November 2024]
The Departments of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) and Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI) have informed Parliament that they are nearing the completion of a National Communications Satellite Strategy, which will soon be submitted to Cabinet for approval. The strategy aims to support the development of a domestic communications satellite, contributing to closing the digital divide, lowering communication costs, and fostering the digital economy.
The proposed strategy encompasses three key components:
- Upstream: The design and specification of the satellite, led by SENTECH and the South African National Space Agency (SANSA).
- Midstream: Activities including the satellite’s launch, commissioning, and operation managed by SANSA, with spectrum regulation and signal distribution handled by SENTECH and ICASA.
- Downstream: Development of IT infrastructure for delivering e-government services, facilitated by the State Information Technology Agency (SITA).