StarSat Customers Left Stranded as Broadcaster Shuts Down

After months of uncertainty, StarSat has officially ceased operations in South Africa following the liquidation of its parent company, OnDigital Media. The announcement, first reported by MyBroadband, was confirmed by marketing manager Jan Hendrik Harmse, marking the end of a prolonged saga that left subscribers frustrated and without service.

A Silent Collapse

StarSat’s troubles began in July 2023 when it failed to renew its broadcasting licence on time. Despite missing the deadline for renewal, the company continued operating until the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) intervened, ordering a shutdown by September 18, 2024. However, StarSat ignored this directive, prompting a dramatic raid on its offices in October 2024, which resulted in its broadcast signals being cut off.

Since then, customers have been left in the dark, receiving little more than a vague apology from the company. Many subscribers who had paid for services in advance were promised compensation once operations resumed, but months later, refunds remain elusive. Numerous customers have taken to social media, particularly Facebook, to demand their money back, but StarSat has remained unresponsive.

Excuses and Unfulfilled Promises

According to Harmse, StarSat’s delay in submitting its renewal documents was due to the Covid-19 pandemic and unresolved shareholder agreements. He claimed the company had been in discussions with Icasa, but these negotiations failed to prevent regulatory action. By early 2025, StarSat still insisted it was working towards a return, but the liquidation of OnDigital Media now makes that impossible.

For former subscribers, the shutdown not only marks the end of a long-standing broadcaster but also leaves them questioning whether they will ever see their refunds. Icasa has yet to announce whether any steps will be taken to compensate affected customers.