Starlink has officially expanded its satellite internet service to 12 African countries, with the recent additions of Ghana and Botswana to its growing network. This marks a significant milestone in the company’s mission to provide reliable internet access across the continent, particularly in areas where traditional infrastructure is lacking.
Expansion Across Africa
Starlink updated its availability map to reflect the inclusion of Ghana and Botswana, making them the latest countries to benefit from the high-speed, low-latency internet service. This expansion follows the company’s initial African launch in Nigeria in 2023, where it has been working closely with local regulators to navigate the complexities of accessing different markets across the continent.
Regulatory Approvals and Future Plans
In addition to its active services in these 12 countries, Starlink has also secured licensing in Zimbabwe. However, the company has yet to commence official operations there. This step indicates Starlink’s commitment to expanding its reach in Africa, where internet penetration remains a challenge in many rural and underserved areas.
Read: Starlink Gets Approval in Ghana: What it Means for Tech People
A Game-Changer for Africa
Starlink’s entry into more African markets could be transformative, providing much-needed internet access in regions where connectivity has traditionally been unreliable or non-existent. This development has the potential to bridge the digital divide, fostering economic growth, education, and improved communication in remote and underserved communities.
As Starlink continues to navigate regulatory landscapes and expand its services across Africa, it will be interesting to see how its presence impacts the continent’s digital infrastructure and accessibility.