The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) says it is eagerly anticipating the official roll-out of Elon Musk’s Starlink in South Africa, which it says will have a transformative impact on its rescue operations.
While Starlink is still deemed illegal by Icasa because it is not yet licenced in the country, thousands of people are said to already use its services in South Africa.
The NSRI says it is keenly watching developments, which included government meetings with Starlink.
New Communications minister Solly Malatsi met with representatives from Starlink several weeks ago to discuss a potential investment into South Africa.
It comes as President Cyril Ramaphosa met with SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk to discuss potential investments during a visit to the UN General Assembly in New York last month. Starlink is a subsidiary wholly owned by SpaceX.
NSRI CEO Dr. Cleeve Robertson says this satellite technology promises to enhance connectivity, safety and socio-economic development, especially in very remote areas.
“Starlink’s satellite internet service will revolutionise our ability to respond to emergencies, especially in remote and underserved areas. The real-time communication capabilities will enhance our rescue operations and, by extension, the safety of all South Africans engaging in water-based activities. Reliable, high-speed internet access can be a game-changer for our volunteers and the lives they work tirelessly to save.”
Robertson says they believe that Starlink will benefit many sectors in South Africa, including Tourism, Fishing, Shipping, Education and the NSRI’s own innovation in prevention and rescue.
“Our rescue operations require accurate, real-time data and coordination,” Dr Robertson emphasised.
“Starlink will enhance our ability to assist communities during critical emergencies, especially when traditional communication networks fail.”
While Starlink’s positive impact on several sectors, and end users, will be enormous, some industry players are concerned it may wipe out the competition, especially since Starlink prefers to deal with customers directly, instead of through resellers.
