South Africa Advances National Satellite Strategy to Boost Digital Sovereignty

South Africa is advancing its National Satellite Dialog (SATCOM) Strategy, designed to foster digital sovereignty and boost economic growth. The initiative, a collaboration between the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) and the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI), seeks to diminish the nation’s reliance on foreign satellite systems and expand connectivity to underserved areas. The strategy was a key topic during a joint meeting of Parliament's Portfolio Committees on Communications and Digital Technologies, and on Science, Technology and Innovation on April 1. Currently, South Africa depends on foreign-owned satellites, creating vulnerability to external disruptions. The country spends an estimated ZAR 1 billion annually on foreign satellite leases. The development of a locally owned satellite system aligns with broader efforts to protect digital sovereignty. Approvals from key government clusters have paved the way for Cabinet submission in May 2025. 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 finalize feasibility studies.