Somalia Grants SpaceX Authorization for Starlink Operations, Seeking to Close the Country's Digital Gap
In a historic move, Starlink, the satellite internet service provider, has been given the green light to commence operations in Somalia. This milestone was announced during an official ceremony held in Mogadishu, attended by both Starlink representatives and government officials.
The National Communications Authority (NCA) of Somalia has officially approved Starlink's operational license, paving the way for the company to launch its high-speed internet service across the nation. By August 2025, Starlink had successfully rolled out its satellite internet service, offering download speeds of 100–270 Mbps and low latency (20–40 ms) [1][2][3][4][5].
The entry of Starlink into Somalia is set to significantly expand internet coverage, reaching major cities and remote rural areas that previously lacked reliable connectivity. This move is expected to help bridge the country’s digital divide, a challenge where over 70% of the population lacks reliable broadband, particularly outside urban centers controlled by mobile broadband providers.
The Starlink service is poised to support socio-economic growth by improving access to education, healthcare, and business sectors, particularly in underserved rural communities along the Shabelle River and other remote regions [1][2][3][4][5]. However, the service's affordability remains a challenge, with a monthly fee of about $70 plus a hardware cost around $390, which is higher than many local options.
The Director General of the NCA, Mustafa Yasin Sheik, stated that Starlink's entry into Somalia is a significant milestone in bridging the digital divide in the country. H.E. Mohamed Mo'allim, the Minister of Communications and Technology, expressed his support for Starlink's entry, stating that the initiative aligns with the government's vision to deliver affordable and accessible internet services to all Somalis.
The partnership between Starlink and the NCA is expected to benefit individuals and institutions in rural areas, where internet access has been limited. Government officials see Starlink as complementary to existing providers rather than a replacement, and regulatory frameworks are being developed to ensure secure usage [2][3][4].
In sum, Starlink's launch in Somalia marks a strategic milestone in advancing nationwide digital infrastructure, potentially accelerating digital inclusion and connectivity equity by overcoming infrastructural limitations widespread in the country. This development is set to revolutionise the digital landscape in Somalia, offering new opportunities for growth and development in the years to come.
[1] Starlink Authorized to Operate in Somalia [2] Starlink's Entry into Somalia: A Leap Forward in Digital Inclusion [3] Starlink Aims to Bridge Somalia's Digital Divide [4] Starlink's Arrival in Somalia: A Game Changer for Digital Inclusion [5] Starlink's Launch in Somalia: A Step Towards Digital Equity
Digital inclusion is set to be boosted with the entry of Starlink, as the country's National Communications Authority has given the company permission to provide data-and-cloud-computing services through its satellite internet network, aimed at reaching both urban and remote regions. The strategic launch of Starlink in Somalia will potentially accelerate the digital infrastructure, revolutionizing the nation's digital landscape and offering new opportunities for socio-economic growth.
