South Africa Rejects Elon Musk’s Starlink Investment Citing Hate, Racism, and Controversial Remarks.

South Africa Rejects Elon Musk’s Starlink Investment Citing Hate, Racism, and Controversial Remarks.

The news as it trends.

The South African government has decided not to pursue Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service due to concerns over his controversial remarks.

The government described Musk’s statements as “regressive,” “racist,” and “racially insensitive,” which led to the decision to block Starlink from establishing operations in the country.

This decision follows a public exchange between Musk and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa regarding the nation’s land reform policies.

South Africa announced its decision to reject Elon Musk’s Starlink investment on February 17, 2025.

The announcement came after a heated exchange between Musk and President Ramaphosa regarding the nation’s land reform policies.

Musk criticized the Expropriation Act, claiming it discriminates based on race, which led to a strong response from the South African government.

The South African government viewed Elon Musk’s comments as “unprogressive” and “racist.” Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya stated that South Africa would not entertain investments from a business figure known for spreading “lies” and holding harmful views.

The government emphasized its commitment to land reform policies and ensuring equitable access to land, which Musk’s comments were seen as undermining.

It is worth noting that the population demographics in South Africa show that the white population is approximately 4.5 million, making up about 7.3% of the total population, while the black population is around 49.1 million, constituting about 81.4% of the population.

Regarding land ownership, whites own about 72% of the total 37 million hectares of farms and agricultural holdings by individual landowners, while blacks own only about 4% of the total farms and agricultural holdings.

The land appropriation law that was passed was designed to ensure equitable land distribution and to correct the injustices of the colonial and apartheid eras.

Concerning the Starlink investment cancellation, the South African government has managed to develop and expand its digital infrastructure over the years without relying on Starlink.

The country has other internet service providers and options for connectivity, which have supported its needs.

However, Starlink could have provided an additional option for high-speed internet, particularly in rural and remote areas that might still face connectivity challenges.

South Africa’s decision to reject Starlink might lead them to invest more in local solutions and technologies to continue improving internet access across the country.

This news also comes in the midst of Elon Musk’s many other investments being rejected in parts of the world. Tesla has faced some rejections and challenges globally.

For instance, China has delayed approval for Tesla’s self-driving technology, which could impact their sales in the world’s largest automotive market. There have also been reports of Tesla owners selling their cars in protest of Musk’s political actions.

Sheryl Crow, an American singer, songwriter, and actress, in protest of Elon Musk, an unelected billionaire’s latest government overreach, sold her Tesla and donated the proceeds to NPR.

She expressed her disapproval of Musk’s role in President Donald Trump’s administration and his leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

Sheryl Crow has released twelve studio albums and won nine Grammy Awards. Some of her popular songs include “All I Wanna Do,” “Strong Enough,” and “Soak Up the Sun.”

Crow is also known for her activism and philanthropy.

It seems Musk’s controversial remarks, perceived racism, and political involvement are having a significant impact on Tesla’s reputation and sales worldwide.