Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) regulations
By Nkosana Khumalo
In a recent exchange on the social media platform X, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Youth Leader Sihle Lonzi challenged Elon Musk, questioning his intentions to conduct business in South Africa amidst allegations of violence against white farmers.
The dialogue began when Musk expressed frustration over South Africa’s Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) regulations, stating, “Starlink is not allowed to operate in South Africa because I’m not black.” Lonzi responded by highlighting concerns about alleged attacks on white farmers, asking, “But, there is a ‘genocide’ here Elon. Why do you want to do business with a country that is killing white farmers? Do you want to fund the genocide?” 
Understanding Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) Regulations
South Africa’s BEE policies were established to address historical injustices by promoting economic participation among Black South Africans. These regulations require companies in specific sectors, including telecommunications, to have at least 30% ownership by historically disadvantaged groups to operate legally. Musk’s satellite internet service, Starlink, has faced challenges entering the South African market due to these stipulations.
Government’s Response to Musk’s Claims
South African officials have refuted Musk’s assertion that Starlink is barred due to his race. Clayson Monyela, Deputy Director-General of Public Diplomacy, emphasized that compliance with local laws is mandatory for all companies, regardless of ownership. He stated, “Starlink is welcome to operate in South Africa provided there’s compliance with local laws. This is a global international trade & investment principle. There are over 600 USA companies investing & operating in South Africa… all complying & thriving!” 
Debate Over Alleged Violence Against White Farmers
Lonzi’s reference to a “genocide” against white farmers touches on a contentious issue in South Africa. Some groups claim that white farmers are being targeted in violent attacks, labeling it as a “white genocide.” However, these claims have been widely disputed. A recent South African high court ruling stated that fears of a white genocide are “clearly imagined and not real,” dismissing such allegations as unfounded.  
Elon Musk’s Previous Comments on South African Policies
This incident is not the first time Musk has criticized South African policies. He has previously labeled the country’s land reform laws, which allow for land expropriation without compensation to address historical land ownership disparities, as “openly racist.” These comments have added to the ongoing debate about race, land ownership, and economic empowerment in South Africa.   
International Reactions and Implications
The controversy has garnered international attention. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently announced he would not attend the upcoming G20 summit in Johannesburg, citing concerns over South Africa’s land reform policies and what he described as an anti-American stance. This development underscores the broader geopolitical implications of South Africa’s domestic policies and the global discourse on race and economic equity.
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