International Mobile Satellite Organisation (INMARSAT, IMSO)

HISTORY AND PRESENT STATUS

nmarsat was established as an internationally owned co-operative to provide mobile satellite communications world-wide. Established in 1979 to serve the maritime community, Inmarsat has evolved to become the only provider of global mobile satellite communications services for commercial and distress and safety applications at sea, in the air and on land.

South Africa signed the Inmarsat Convention and Operating Agreement on 3 March 1994. South Africa, through Telkom, is also a shareholder in the Inmarsat company.

On April 1 1999, Inmarsat changed its corporate structure from that of an intergovernmental organisation, to being a commercial company with a small intergovernmental secretariat (IMSO) to ensure that Inmarsat continues to meet its public service obligations.

The communications, disaster management, search and rescue and meteorological applications of Inmarsat provide a multitude of benefits to South Africa.

OTHER DEPARTMENTS AND COOPERATING ORGANISATIONS

Department of Communications
Department of Provincial and Local Government (disaster management)
Telkom is a shareholder of the Inmarsat Company.