Starlink Now Available in Congo, Expanding Connectivity in Africa

Starlink, the satellite internet service from SpaceX, is now available in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Elon Musk announced on Sunday. This development comes after the Congolese government reversed its decision to ban the service in March 2024. The DRC had initially prohibited Starlink over concerns that rebel groups, including those supported by Rwanda, might use the service for malicious purposes.

The reversal of the ban marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to improving internet access. As of 2023, only around 30% of the Congolese population had internet access, according to the International Telecommunication Union. With Starlink’s introduction, the DRC is set to expand its internet coverage, especially in remote and war-torn areas that have been deprived of reliable connectivity.

Starlink’s satellite-based internet service is particularly valuable in areas where traditional internet infrastructure is lacking or difficult to implement. Unlike conventional broadband, Starlink can provide fast, reliable internet through satellite technology, bypassing the need for physical cables and networks. This makes it an ideal solution for the DRC, where building such infrastructure is a major challenge.

The availability of Starlink is part of a broader expansion plan across Africa, with the service now live in more than a dozen countries. Starlink’s entry into the DRC comes at a time when the government is looking to enhance its digital infrastructure and support the country’s development in the digital age.

The DRC’s decision to grant a license to Starlink indicates a shift towards greater openness to satellite technology, despite initial security concerns. The government’s approval suggests that the benefits of improved connectivity outweigh the potential risks, especially in a country with limited internet access.

This move is expected to improve communication, access to education, and business opportunities for many Congolese citizens, particularly in rural regions. With Starlink now operational, Congo joins the growing number of African nations embracing satellite internet as a means to overcome connectivity challenges.