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Starlink, a division of SpaceX, has received approval to launch its high-speed satellite Internet services in Chad, marking a significant step in strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure. Starlink’s constellation of low-Earth-orbit satellites aims to deliver reliable Internet access worldwide, and its entry into Chad is set to accelerate the digitalisation of public services and support the growth of the tech ecosystem.
Chad’s Communications Minister, Boukar Michel, highlighted the transformative potential of this partnership, stating, “A large part of our territory is not covered by fibre optics, and I believe that Starlink will help us bridge this gap.”
This approval aligns with Starlink’s strategy to expand its footprint across Africa. The service has already launched in countries such as Nigeria, Mozambique, Zambia, Kenya, Botswana, and Malawi, though it has encountered regulatory challenges in certain areas, including Cameroon, where authorities have imposed restrictions on Starlink equipment imports due to licensing issues.
Starlink’s entry into Chad is expected to have a substantial impact on various sectors, providing much-needed Internet access to improve educational resources, healthcare delivery, and economic growth through the rise of digital businesses. This initiative also introduces competition to traditional Internet service providers (ISPs), which could positively impact Internet pricing and accessibility across the region.
With recent expansion into Zimbabwe and Burundi, Starlink is rapidly growing its presence in Africa, although the success of these initiatives will hinge on effective regulatory navigation and local implementation.
In essence, Chad’s approval of Starlink marks a pivotal development in its digital transformation. By harnessing advanced satellite technology, Chad can address longstanding connectivity challenges, opening new doors for economic and social progress in the digital age.
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