South Africa Launches State-Backed BrainSAT Satellite Communications Company

South Africa launched BrainSAT Satellite Services on July 2, 2026, a state-backed satellite communications company formed in partnership with UAE-based Space42, stemming from a Memorandum of Understanding signed during an April 2024 state visit to Dubai. Deputy President Paul Mashatile officially inaugurated the company in Johannesburg. BrainSAT will offer Space42's YahClick Ka-band high-throughput satellite broadband and Thuraya mobile satellite services, targeting underserved rural areas and sectors including mining, agriculture, maritime operations, and emergency response, as part of South Africa's National Satellite Communication Strategy. The launch comes as South Africa's roughly 13 million still-offline citizens await a decision on Starlink's stalled license application, which remains blocked over BEE ownership requirements.