State-backed South African satellite Internet and phone company launched
SA launches state-backed satellite internet & phone company as the South African government unveiled BrainSAT Satellite Services, marking a significant step towards improving digital connectivity and communications infrastructure across the country. Announced by Deputy President Paul Mashatile in Johannesburg, the initiative introduces a locally backed satellite internet provider while also making Thuraya satellite phones more widely available through a strategic collaboration with UAE-based satellite communications giant Space42.
The launch forms part of South Africa’s broader digital transformation strategy, aimed at expanding reliable connectivity to rural communities, businesses, government institutions, and industries where fibre and mobile networks remain unavailable or unreliable.
BrainSAT Satellite Services marks a new era for South African satellite Internet
The introduction of BrainSAT Satellite Services signals South Africa’s ambition to strengthen its digital infrastructure through satellite technology.
Although BrainSAT is an independent South African company, it has entered into a strategic partnership with Space42, one of the world’s leading satellite communications providers based in the United Arab Emirates. Through this collaboration, BrainSAT will leverage Space42’s advanced satellite infrastructure to provide broadband internet and communication services throughout South Africa.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile described the launch as a milestone for the country’s communications sector.
“The launch of BrainSAT Satellite Services and Thuraya satellite phones marks an important milestone in our nation’s pursuit of secure, resilient and reliable satellite connectivity.”
According to Mashatile, the partnership demonstrates South Africa’s readiness to embrace the digital economy while positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s growing technology landscape.
Paul Mashatile highlights strategic Space42 partnership
Memorandum signed during UAE state visit
Mashatile revealed that the collaboration originates from a Memorandum of Understanding signed during President Cyril Ramaphosa’s state visit to Dubai in April 2024.
The agreement involved the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, BrainSAT Technologies, and Space42, creating the framework for delivering world-class satellite communication services to South Africa.
He stressed that the agreement extends beyond a simple business arrangement.
Instead, it represents a commitment to modernise South Africa’s communications infrastructure while ensuring greater resilience during emergencies and network failures.
The Space42 partnership allows South Africa to benefit from globally recognised satellite technologies without waiting years for entirely domestic satellite deployment.
South African satellite Internet targets underserved communities
One of the biggest advantages of satellite internet is its ability to provide connectivity where traditional infrastructure cannot reach.
Large parts of South Africa continue to struggle with limited broadband access due to geographical challenges, low population density, and the high cost of laying fibre-optic networks.
BrainSAT aims to close this digital divide.
Using YahClick, Space42’s high-throughput satellite broadband platform, BrainSAT intends to deliver always-on internet services to:
- Rural households
- Remote schools
- Clinics and hospitals
- Mining operations
- Farms
- Government facilities
- Emergency response teams
- Maritime operators
- Businesses in isolated regions
Unlike fibre or conventional mobile networks, satellite broadband can be deployed rapidly without requiring expensive ground infrastructure.
This makes it particularly valuable during natural disasters or infrastructure failures.
BrainSAT broadband packages announced
According to BrainSAT’s official website, the company will offer four YahClick broadband packages.
These include:
- YahClick Lite — 10GB
- YahClick Empower — 20GB
- YahClick Premium — 50GB
- YahClick Extra Premium — 100GB
While pricing has not yet been announced, the packages are expected to serve households, businesses, government departments and enterprise customers operating in remote areas.
BrainSAT says its services are designed for locations where fibre broadband and 4G mobile networks may never become commercially viable.
Thuraya satellite phones expand communications resilience
New communications option for critical sectors
Alongside BrainSAT, the government also introduced the wider availability of Thuraya satellite phones.
These satellite devices provide voice and messaging services independent of traditional mobile towers, making them ideal during emergencies or when terrestrial communication networks become unavailable.
The launch is expected to benefit sectors including:
- Mining
- Maritime transport
- Energy
- Humanitarian organisations
- Disaster response
- Border security
- Conservation
- Remote tourism
Satellite phones remain operational even in isolated regions without cellular coverage, making them valuable for businesses and emergency services alike.
Mashatile said expanding access to Thuraya technology strengthens South Africa’s communications resilience.
Space42 partnership brings world-class technology
The collaboration gives South Africa access to several advanced technologies operated by Space42.
These include:
- Thuraya-4 NGS satellite
- YahClick broadband network
- Foresight SAR satellite constellation
- Satellite communication infrastructure
- Geospatial intelligence capabilities
Mashatile praised the UAE company for helping South Africa accelerate its digital ambitions.
He said the partnership allows international innovation to support local economic development and technological empowerment.
National SATCOM strategy driving digital transformation
Government aims for a South African-owned satellite system
The launch also supports South Africa’s National Satellite Communication (SATCOM) Strategy.
The strategy seeks to establish a South African-owned satellite communications system capable of providing national broadband coverage while reducing reliance on foreign communication providers.
Government believes the strategy will improve:
- Rural service delivery
- Public safety
- Digital education
- Healthcare connectivity
- Government communications
- Economic development
- National security
Satellite infrastructure also supports industries that require uninterrupted communications regardless of weather conditions or terrestrial network failures.
Economic benefits could save billions
The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation previously estimated that South Africa spends approximately R100 billion annually on foreign communications services.
Government believes investing in domestic satellite infrastructure could dramatically reduce these long-term costs.
According to previous DSTI estimates, a South African-owned communications satellite system could require approximately R6 billion in upfront capital investment while remaining operational for up to 20 years.
Officials argue this would deliver substantial savings while supporting local innovation, employment and skills development.
Beyond broadband: BrainSAT offers enterprise solutions
BrainSAT’s services extend beyond residential internet access.
The company also offers solutions for specialised industries, including:
Maritime communications
Satellite voice and broadband services for vessels operating offshore.
Rapid deployment broadband
Temporary internet connectivity for disaster response teams, construction projects and remote operations.
Geospatial intelligence
Satellite-based monitoring and mapping solutions for government and commercial users.
Data centre infrastructure
Enterprise connectivity supporting secure business operations.
These services position BrainSAT as a communications provider for both public and private sector organisations.
Strengthening South Africa’s digital future
Reliable internet access has become essential for economic growth, education, healthcare and public services.
Government believes satellite communications can help bridge the country’s digital divide by ensuring connectivity reaches communities often left behind by conventional infrastructure.
BrainSAT’s rollout could also support South Africa’s ambitions in:
- Smart agriculture
- Digital government
- Remote education
- Online healthcare
- Mining technology
- Logistics
- National disaster management
As digital transformation accelerates across Africa, satellite communications are increasingly viewed as a critical component of future infrastructure.
Challenges remain
While the launch represents an important milestone, several questions remain unanswered.
BrainSAT has not yet announced consumer pricing for its broadband packages, making it difficult to assess affordability.
Competition from existing satellite providers, fibre networks and expanding 5G coverage will also influence the company’s long-term success.
Industry analysts will be watching closely to see how quickly BrainSAT expands its services and whether satellite internet can become a practical option for households as well as enterprise customers.
The success of the initiative will ultimately depend on affordability, service quality and widespread adoption.
Conclusion
SA launches state-backed satellite internet & phone company in a move that reflects the country’s commitment to strengthening digital infrastructure and expanding connectivity to every corner of the nation. Through BrainSAT Satellite Services, the government’s strategic Space42 partnership, and the rollout of Thuraya satellite phones, South Africa is taking a significant step toward building a more resilient communications network.
With satellite broadband set to reach remote communities, businesses and critical industries, the initiative aligns with the country’s long-term National SATCOM strategy while supporting economic development and digital inclusion. If successfully implemented, BrainSAT could play a key role in transforming South African satellite Internet services and reducing reliance on foreign communications providers.
References
- MyBroadband – State-backed South African satellite Internet company launched
https://mybroadband.co.za/news/broadband/603716-state-backed-south-african-satellite-internet-company-launched.html - TechCentral – South Africa launches BrainSAT Satellite Services
https://techcentral.co.za/ - ITWeb – BrainSAT and Space42 partnership expands South Africa’s satellite connectivity
https://www.itweb.co.za/ - Engineering News – BrainSAT Satellite Services launched to boost South Africa’s digital infrastructure
https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/
