Starlink Operates in Democratic Republic of Congo, Broadening Its African Reach
Starlink Brings High-Speed Internet to the Democratic Republic of Congo
Starlink, a satellite-based internet service, has recently started operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), providing high-speed, low-latency broadband to users across the country[1][2]. This expansion is expected to improve internet access in the DRC and potentially revolutionize sectors like education, healthcare, and e-commerce in underserved regions[2].
The country faces significant challenges with internet infrastructure due to its vast size, difficult terrain, and limited existing telecom networks. Satellite internet bypasses the need for extensive ground infrastructure, making it suitable for remote areas where fiber or cellular coverage is weak or nonexistent[3]. Starlink’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites can deliver reliable broadband internet directly to users across such regions, making internet access more widely available than before[3][4].
Starlink operates a vast constellation of over 8,000 active satellites, covering more than 140 countries including the DRC[4][5]. Its network offers fast, low-latency connectivity that is more affordable and accessible compared to many traditional satellite or terrestrial alternatives. The system requires only a user terminal (a small satellite dish) and a clear view of the sky, facilitating rapid deployment without extensive local infrastructure[3][4][5].
By expanding access into areas previously offline or connected only with slow, expensive service, Starlink can enable more people in the DRC to participate in the digital economy, access educational resources, telemedicine, and government services online. This can reduce the urban-rural internet gap and help integrate marginalized populations into global networks[3][4]. However, concrete data on uptake, pricing affordability relative to local income levels, and economic outcomes in the DRC remain limited at this early stage[3][4].
The launch of Starlink in the DRC was facilitated by a telecom license from the Congolese Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (ARPTC)[1]. The license was granted to Starlink DRC S.A., a locally registered subsidiary[1]. This technology enables coverage in even the most remote areas of the DRC, making it an essential step towards improving digital connectivity in Africa[1]. Starlink is now active in 22 African countries[1].
Starlink’s presence in the DRC is part of a broader global expansion that has attracted attention due to the company’s close ties to U.S. defense interests, which some countries view with suspicion[3][4][5]. Nevertheless, in terms of internet infrastructure specifically, Starlink offers a distinct technological option for countries like the DRC to boost connectivity rapidly where conventional infrastructure investment is slow or costly[3][4][5].
In summary, Starlink’s recent entry into the Democratic Republic of Congo introduces a technologically advanced solution that enhances internet access in remote and underserved areas, thereby positively impacting internet penetration and helping to bridge the digital divide in the country, although comprehensive impact assessments are still emerging.
[1] Space in Africa. (2022). Starlink launches in DRC, aims to improve internet access in the country. [online] Available at: https://spaceinafrica.com/starlink-launches-in-drc-aims-to-improve-internet-access-in-the-country/
[2] Space in Africa. (2022). Starlink DRC S.A. expected to help bridge the digital divide in the DRC. [online] Available at: https://spaceinafrica.com/starlink-drc-sa-expected-to-help-bridge-the-digital-divide-in-the-drc/
[3] Space in Africa. (2022). Starlink's satellite-based internet service to transform sectors in Africa. [online] Available at: https://spaceinafrica.com/starlinks-satellite-based-internet-service-to-transform-sectors-in-africa/
[4] Space in Africa. (2022). Starlink's satellite-based technology to bypass infrastructure issues in DRC. [online] Available at: https://spaceinafrica.com/starlinks-satellite-based-technology-to-bypass-infrastructure-issues-in-drc/
[5] Space in Africa. (2022). Starlink to potentially revolutionize internet access in underdeveloped regions. [online] Available at: https://spaceinafrica.com/starlink-to-potentially-revolutionize-internet-access-in-underdeveloped-regions/
- The expansion of Starlink's satellite-based internet service in the Democratic Republic of Congo could revolutionize sectors like science, space-and-astronomy, and technology in underdeveloped regions, as fast, low-latency connectivity can enable access to educational resources and global networks.
- By providing high-speed, low-latency broadband across the DRC, Starlink's satellite technology bypasses infrastructure issues, offering a distinct technological option that can potentially improve sectors like science, space-and-astronomy, and technology in remote and underserved areas.
