Amazon’s Leo satellite broadband service will enter the South African market by 2027 through a distribution partnership with Herotel, a Maziv-owned network operator. By leveraging Herotel’s existing telecommunications licenses, Amazon avoids the regulatory impasse that has stalled competitors like Starlink, which has faced long-standing friction over local equity ownership requirements, according to statements from Amazon Leo and Herotel leadership.
Regulatory bypass strategy
The core of the agreement relies on Herotel holding the necessary regulatory approvals from the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa). Trevor Vieweg, head of Amazon Leo’s global business, confirmed during a media briefing that Herotel will act as the licensee for the service. This structure directly addresses the hurdle currently facing SpaceX’s Starlink, which has been unable to launch in South Africa due to a policy requiring telecommunications licensees to be 30% owned by historically disadvantaged groups—a requirement SpaceX has refused to cede.
Icasa recently clarified that satellite operators cannot currently obtain independent network licenses, confirming that partnering with an existing license holder is the realistic route for market entry. Herotel CEO Van Zyl Botha stated that the company will manage the licensing obligations, allowing Amazon to deploy its infrastructure without directly navigating the local equity standoff.
Did you know?
Amazon is investing over US$10-billion in its low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. The network, formerly known as Project Kuiper, aims to provide high-speed, low-latency internet to areas where traditional fibre and fixed-wireless infrastructure remain unavailable.
Service capabilities and technical specifications
The service, branded as Evry, will utilize a constellation of over 3,000 satellites orbiting at an altitude of approximately 590km. According to Vieweg, this proximity allows for latency of 50ms or less, significantly faster than the 35,000km distance required by traditional geostationary systems. The network operates in the Ka frequency band, which Amazon claims offers certain advantages over rivals.
Customers will have access to three antenna models, though the initial launch will focus on the Nano and Pro units. The Pro antenna is capable of delivering download speeds of up to 400Mbit/s, while the larger Ultra model, which is not part of the initial launch phase, supports speeds up to 1Gbit/s. Registration for the service is currently open at evry.co.za.
The Vodacom connection
The deal carries a complex corporate structure. Vodacom holds a 30% stake in Maziv, the parent company of Herotel, following a lengthy competition approval process concluded in June. While Vodafone, Vodacom’s parent company, previously announced a partnership with Amazon’s satellite project in 2023, Botha noted that the current agreement with Herotel is not exclusive. Amazon expects to pursue additional partnerships as demand for satellite broadband grows across South Africa.
Pro Tip:
If you are located in a rural area currently underserved by fibre, monitor the official Evry website for updates on local coverage and pricing, as the commercial launch is scheduled for 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Amazon need an Icasa license to operate in South Africa?
No. According to Amazon Leo executives, Herotel will hold the necessary licenses, allowing Amazon to operate through this distribution partnership rather than seeking its own independent regulatory approval.
How does this differ from the Starlink situation?
Starlink has been unable to launch in South Africa because it refuses to comply with the 30% historically disadvantaged ownership rule required for telecommunications licensees. Amazon has sidestepped this by partnering with an existing, compliant local licensee (Herotel).
What speeds can users expect from the Evry service?
The residential “Pro” antenna is expected to support download speeds of up to 400Mbit/s, with a latency of 50ms or less.
When will the service be available?
Commercial launch is expected in 2027, with initial satellite deployment already underway to support service in specific latitudes.
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