President Ramaphosa Meets Elon Musk to Discuss Potential Collaborations

In a significant development, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa met with Elon Musk, the South African-born tech billionaire, during a visit to New York. The meeting occurred during the 79th Session of the United Nations General Debate and High-Level Week, as Ramaphosa seeks to enhance foreign investment in South Africa.

Details of the meeting remain sparse, as it took place behind closed doors. However, President Ramaphosa characterized the discussions with Elon Musk, known for leading innovative companies such as SpaceX and Tesla, as “positive.” The president suggested the possibility of further interactions in the future, aimed at strengthening ties with leading tech and innovation figures.

While in New York, Ramaphosa’s agenda included addressing the SA-US Interactive Business Forum at the New York Stock Exchange and delivering a keynote speech at a roundtable discussion hosted by the Business Council for International Understanding. These engagements form part of a broader strategy to attract foreign direct investment and bolster South Africa’s economic prospects.

The meeting with Musk holds particular relevance as South Africa anticipates the launch of Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service. Despite Starlink’s presence in several other African countries, such as Botswana and Nigeria, the service has yet to commence in South Africa. Questions have arisen concerning regulatory hurdles and the approval process within the country.

In prior statements, President Ramaphosa indicated ongoing discussions with Musk about potential investments in South Africa. “I have had discussions with him and have said, ‘Elon, you’ve become so successful and you’re investing in a variety of countries, I want you to come home and invest here,’” Ramaphosa remarked.

The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) has not yet received a formal application from Starlink, according to Chairman Mothibi Ramusi. Ramusi noted the importance of meeting certain licensing conditions, including a 30% Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) requirement, which aligns with South Africa’s national policy objectives.

Meanwhile, Musk has expressed impatience with regulatory proceedings, stating on the social media platform X that Starlink is “waiting for regulatory approval” in South Africa. ICASA previously warned against the illegal provision of Starlink services through unlicensed terminals in the country.

The interaction with Musk potentially signifies a forthcoming collaboration in areas of technology, renewable energy, and communications, which could benefit both South Africa and Musk’s enterprises. South Africa’s rich mineral resources and its strategic position within the global clean energy transition offer substantial opportunities for partnership.